While US President Joe Biden threatens Saudi Arabia with consequences over OPEC’s recently decided oil production cuts, the kingdom is defending itself against heavy criticism from Washington. The decision was made for “purely economic” reasons, Saudi Foreign Minister Faisal bin Farhan told Al-Arabiya on Tuesday evening.
“The OPEC+ countries have acted responsibly and made the right decision.” It’s about the stability of the market. In addition to OPEC members, OPEC+ also consists of non-member states such as Russia. Regarding Moscow, Biden said in an interview with CNN news channel that it was time to rethink relations with the leading OPEC country. “There will be some consequences for what they have done to Russia,” the head of state said.
US senators from Biden’s Democratic Party had called for a major end to military cooperation with Saudi Arabia as the country supported Russia’s aggressive war against Ukraine by agreeing to the austerity measures. For example, arms supplies are largely frozen. Faisal bin Farhan said relations with the US support security and stability in the region. The military cooperation between Riyadh and Washington serves the interests of both.
partnership heavily burdened
The United States and the Islamic conservative kingdom have been partners for decades. Despite Biden’s visit to Saudi Arabia this summer, relations are currently tense – not least due to the murder of Saudi journalist Jamal Khashoggi four years ago in Istanbul by a Riyadh assassination squad. US intelligence agencies blame Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman. He denies the charge.
Source: Krone
I’m Wayne Wickman, a professional journalist and author for Today Times Live. My specialty is covering global news and current events, offering readers a unique perspective on the world’s most pressing issues. I’m passionate about storytelling and helping people stay informed on the goings-on of our planet.
