Moscow accuses Saudi Arabia of driving escalation in Yemen

NEW YORK, Aug. 14 (YPA) –  Russia has sharply criticized Saudi Arabia at the UN Security Council, accusing Riyadh of driving a dangerous military escalation in Yemen following nearly four years of relative calm.

Representative of the Russian Federation Dina Gilmutdinova, condemned recent Saudi airstrikes targeting the runway at Sanaa International Airport, describing the attack as a “cruel and disproportionate act” against a facility essential for civilian and humanitarian needs.

Speaking during a briefing on the situation in Yemen, she warned that the country is currently facing its most severe military and political crisis since the April 2022 truce.

The Russian diplomat noted that the Saudi escalation appears linked to the landing of civilian aircraft at Sana’a and Hodeida airports.

Holding Saudi Arabia directly responsible for the raids, she stressed that targeting civilian infrastructure worsens the humanitarian crisis and undermines international aid efforts.

Moscow called for an immediate de-escalation, urging all parties to protect vital infrastructure and pursue a diplomatic solution to prevent further economic and humanitarian suffering.

@E.Y.M