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Russian engagement across the Middle East discussed by Committee

13 January 2017

The International Relations Committee takes evidence from Director of Carnegie's Moscow Centre on President Putin's interests across the region.

Witnesses

Wednesday 18 January, Committee Room 1, Palace of Westminster

At 11:30am

  • Dr Dmitri Trenin, Director, Carnegie Endowment Moscow

Possible questions

  • What, in your view, are President Putin's major interests and priorities in the Middle East?
  • Is Russia on ''march'' seeking more influence across the region or does it have more discrete and particular aims?
  • Perceptions of Russia have become more unfavourable amongst Arab publics as a result of Russia's policy in Syria, and its relations with Gulf countries have become fraught. Is this of concern to Moscow and does it limit what Russia can achieve in the region?
  • How is President Putin's Middle East policy viewed amongst Russian foreign policy elites and policy-makers?
  • In Syria, Russia is clearly the key decision-maker but it does seem to be struggling to impose peace. How successful would you judge Russia's Syria policy and can it deliver a sustainable political process there?
  • Russia has been building alliances with Turkey, Egypt and Iran. How enduring are these alliances and do they have shared strategic aims in the region? What are the limitations and scope that this might offer European and UK influence in the region?
  • How do you suggest the friendship between President elect Trump and President Putin will play out in the Middle East?

Further information

Image: iStockphoto