Russia

China–UAE News

Reuters Investigation Uncovers Covert Iranian Military Procurement Network Involving UAE and China

A Reuters investigation reported by Yemen Monitor reveals Iran created a covert network of over 5,000 front entities to procure at least $2 billion in military goods since January 2025. The investigation identified shipments originating from China, Russia, and Germany, alongside $27 million in maritime imports from the UAE. Around 97% of transactions avoided cross-border banking transfers through the use of overseas intermediaries and offshore accounts.

Industry News

India Slashes U.S. and Russian Crude, Lifting UAE Share to Record 26.5%

According to Indian government data reported by The Hindu, India eliminated crude imports from the U.S. and reduced Russian purchases by 18% in September 2026. The pivot followed the enactment of a new U.S. sanctions law and saw India expand oil purchases from the UAE by 67% month-on-month. The UAE's share of India's crude imports reached an all-time high of 26.5%, with Russia and the UAE together accounting for 60% of total supplies.

China–UAE News

China’s September Crude Imports From UAE Rise While Gulf Inflows Slump

Chinese customs data indicates crude oil imports from the UAE rose 5 percent year-on-year to 733,000 barrels per day in September 2026. Conversely, shipments from Saudi Arabia and Iraq fell substantially, driving an overall 20 percent drop in total imports. Chinese refiners offset Gulf shortfalls by boosting purchases from Russia and Brazil.

Policy & Legal Updates

Trump Seeks 60 Days to Assess Russia Sanctions Law Impact, Rubio Says

US President Donald Trump is taking a 60-day period to evaluate the economic consequences of imposing Russia-related sanctions and secondary tariffs, US Secretary of State Marco Rubio said. The announcement follows an executive order waiving penalties under the Graham Act, which included proposed 100 percent tariffs on top purchasers of Russian oil and gas, such as China and India. Rubio stated the pause is intended to study the broader repercussions on global energy markets and domestic industries.