While much of the world has rushed to condemn the Russian invasion of Ukraine, Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) member states have generally opted for a cautious approach. Since the conflict does not present a direct threat to regional stability, Gulf Arab leaders have been reluctant to openly take sides. However, this may become increasingly difficult if the war drags on along with a worsening of Russia-west tensions.

Someone else’s war

Kuwait and Qatar have projected closer alignment with western states on the Ukraine conflict, while Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates (UAE) have refused to meet western expectations to adopt a more anti-Russian stance. Meanwhile, Bahrain and Oman have so far distanced themselves from the war...