Gulf leaders reach out to Putin following aborted Wagner mutiny

Leaders of  the Arab Gulf states have on Monday and Tuesday expressed support for Russian President Vladimir Putin following the aborted mutiny by the Wagner mercenary group on Saturday. 

Saudi Arabia's Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman (MbS) held a telephone call with Putin on Tuesday, with the prince expressing his full support for the efforts taken by Russia to thwart the short lived coup attempt, according to Russia's state-run news agency RIA.

MbS' call came after the leaders of Qatar and the UAE both similarly reached out to the embattled Russian president on Monday in separate shows of support.

The Emir of Qatar, Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, held a brief conversation with Putin where he expressed his support for the Kremlin's actions, according to RIA. 

Following this, President of the UAE Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed al-Nahayan (MbZ) called Putin to get an assessment of the situation facing Russia in the aftermath of the Wagner mutiny, according to the UAE's state news agency WAM. 

"Having received comprehensive information, the Emirati leader declared full support for the actions of the Russian leadership", WAM reported.

Additionally, both leaders discussed bilateral relations and reaffirmed the need to preserve the stability of Russia and the safety of its people. 

(Reuters)