Consider This from NPR Does The U.S.-Saudi Alliance Have A Future?
Oct 13, 2022
President Biden's fist bump with Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman has sparked discussions about the future of U.S.-Saudi relations. With rising gas prices and OPEC Plus cutting production, Congress is re-evaluating the decades-long partnership. Political implications are significant, especially with midterm elections looming. This evolving relationship is marked by a shift towards transactional dealings and growing ties between Saudi Arabia and authoritarian regimes like Russia and China. What does this mean for global energy stability and regional security?
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Biden's Controversial Meeting
- President Biden faced criticism for meeting with Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman after accusing him of ordering Jamal Khashoggi's murder.
- Despite this, Biden aimed to reorient the U.S.-Saudi relationship, prioritizing strategic interests in the Middle East.
OPEC+ Production Cut
- OPEC+, led by Russia and Saudi Arabia, announced a significant oil production cut, impacting global gas prices.
- This move has been perceived as a strategic alignment with Russia, raising concerns among U.S. officials.
Shift in US-Saudi Relations
- Saudi Arabia's decision to cut oil production is viewed as potentially punitive towards the Biden administration, influencing U.S. midterm elections.
- It also benefits Russia financially, amidst global energy crisis and the war in Ukraine.