Putin stands to gain from the war in the Middle East — Luxembourg’s foreign minister
The escalation of the situation in the Middle East is already affecting global energy markets, and rising oil and gas prices directly benefit Russia and help finance the war against Ukraine.
This was stated by Luxembourg’s Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs, Xavier Bettel.
According to him, the current situation is actually working in the Kremlin’s favor.
“There is one man who is currently sitting in the Kremlin in front of the TV eating popcorn—that’s Putin. Because the rubles are coming in, the coffers are filling up, oil is getting more expensive, gas is getting more expensive. He is the one who benefits from this situation,” Bettel emphasized.
He also expressed hope that this is understood in the U.S.
“I hope the President of the United States understands this, because right now he is the one filling Putin’s war chest,” the minister stated.
Bettel noted that he had discussed the situation with ambassadors from Gulf countries the day before, particularly regarding security in the Strait of Hormuz.
According to him, despite the escalation, the reaction of the countries in the region currently appears restrained.
“I must say that today we are somewhat surprised by the calm of the Gulf countries given what is happening on the ground. We cannot rule out anything for tomorrow,” he noted.
The minister emphasized that Iran’s attacks are continuing and the situation could worsen.
“We see that Iran’s attacks are continuing, so it is very important to condemn them,” Bettel concluded.
The EU warns that a further escalation of the conflict could have an even greater impact on energy markets and the global economy.
As a reminder, Iran has reported damage to thousands of civilian facilities following attacks by the U.S. and Israel.
Iran also accused the U.S. of intending to stage a new 9/11.
