Ambassador Zheltov highlights strong military and political ties with Kuwait

The Times Kuwait Report

Russian Ambassador to Kuwait, H.E. Vladimir Zheltov, affirmed that military and political ties between Moscow and Kuwait are firmly established, emphasizing that cooperation between the two nations is built on decades of longstanding partnership and shared history.

Speaking on the sidelines of a reception hosted by the Embassy of the Russia in Kuwait to mark Defender of the Fatherland Day, Zheltov explained that the embassy celebrates two major national occasions annually — Russia Day on June 12 and Defender of the Fatherland Day on February 23, which represents the official holiday of the Russian Armed Forces.

He noted that the occasion dates back to the Soviet army era and has become a firmly established national milestone in modern Russian history.

The reception was attended by the Commander of Artillery of the Kuwaiti Land Forces, Brigadier Faisal Al-Ajil, along with senior military officers, representatives of Kuwait’s General Staff, diplomats, and prominent official and media figures.

Longstanding Military Cooperation

Ambassador Zheltov said the participation of representatives from Kuwait’s General Staff and military leadership reflects the deep historical ties between the two nations. He pointed out that military cooperation between Moscow and Kuwait dates back to the 1960s and 1970s, underscoring the strength of bilateral defense relations.

He acknowledged that military relations, like other international partnerships, have been affected by developments in Europe, particularly in Eastern Europe, while emphasizing that communication and cooperation continue within established frameworks.

Regarding potential defense or security agreements, the ambassador said discussions are ongoing between the two sides, noting that media reports do not always reflect the full or accurate picture.

Continued Political Dialogue

On the political front, Zheltov confirmed that consultations between the foreign ministries of both countries continue at various levels. He referenced the visit of Kuwait’s foreign minister to Moscow last September and revealed that a new round of political consultations at the officials’ level is expected to take place in Moscow soon, reflecting both sides’ commitment to sustained dialogue and coordination.

Addressing the Arab–Russian summit, he explained that its postponement came at the request of the Arab side for known reasons, stressing that the summit remains on the agenda of Arab-Russian relations and reflects mutual seriousness in strengthening cooperation.

Growing Tourism Interest

The ambassador also highlighted increasing interest among Kuwaiti travelers in visiting Moscow and other Russian cities. He said many Kuwaiti visitors speak positively about Moscow as a distinguished tourist destination, particularly praising service quality, security standards, and advanced infrastructure.

Regional Consultations and Diplomacy

Zheltov confirmed ongoing coordination between Russia and regional countries regarding regional developments through regular consultations and intensified discussions amid sensitive regional issues, including the situation in Gaza, the Palestinian cause, and the Iranian file. He added that consultations are ongoing with several Gulf and Arab capitals on matters of shared concern.

He also praised the mediation role played by Oman, describing its leadership as wise and noting Muscat’s strong record in hosting regional and international negotiations, making it a suitable venue for dialogue among various parties.

For his part, the Russian military attaché in Kuwait, Colonel Pyotr Relshikov, said Defender of the Fatherland Day reflects the long history of the Russian army and navy and symbolizes the strong bond between generations of national defenders. He expressed appreciation for all those who contributed to safeguarding the country’s security and stability.

He noted that Russia played a decisive role in defeating fascism during World War II, with the Soviet people paying a heavy price exceeding 27 million lives. He also highlighted the Soviet Union’s historical support for national liberation movements and contributions to political and economic development across parts of Asia and Africa.

The attaché concluded by commending Kuwait’s balanced stance toward regional and international crises, including the conflict in Ukraine.

Kuwait as a Model of Moderation

Zheltov emphasized that while some European capitals occasionally raise sensitive issues, Kuwait is not an arena for hostile rhetoric but rather a model of calm diplomacy and flexibility, guided by a policy of balance and moderation.

Ambassador Zheltov, praised Kuwait for its “neutral stance and commitment to avoiding escalation,” highlighting his respect for “the professionalism of the Kuwaiti press and the leadership’s efforts to maintain balanced relations with countries worldwide.”

Zheltov said “military cooperation between Russia and Kuwait dates back to the 1960s and 1970s.”

He added that “political consultations between the foreign ministries of both nations are ongoing at multiple levels,” and emphasized that “a new round of official-level political consultations will soon take place in Moscow.”

The ambassador also highlighted the growing interest of Kuwaiti citizens in traveling to Moscow and other Russian cities, reflecting the strengthening cultural and tourism ties between the two countries.