Middle East Conflict Provides Economic Lifeline to Russia's War Machine

A prolonged energy crisis triggered by the Middle East conflict could offer an economic boost to Russia, providing an opportunity for it to step in and meet demand in China and India as global oil supplies are disrupted. The weakening of Iran's regime may deprive Russia of a close regional partner, but this setback could be mitigated by an economic windfall if disruption pushes buyers towards Russian energy. Meanwhile, Western arms supplies to Ukraine may slow down.