Additional Coverage:
- The Russian arms dealer who was exchanged for Brittney Griner is trying to sell weapons to the Houthis: report (newsbreak.com)
Arms Dealer Viktor Bout Returns to Weapons Trade
Viktor Bout, known as the “Merchant of Death,” is once again engaged in arms dealings, according to The Wall Street Journal. After being released in a prisoner exchange for Brittney Griner, Bout is now reportedly negotiating weapons sales to the Iran-backed Houthis in Yemen.
Arms Deal with Houthis
In August, Bout was reportedly present at a Moscow negotiation where the Houthis sought to purchase $10 million worth of automatic weapons. The deal, if completed, would involve deliveries of AK-74s disguised as food supplies.
Houthis’ Red Sea Attacks
The Houthis have launched numerous attacks on commercial shipping in the Red Sea since last year, targeting Israeli and US military vessels. These attacks have disrupted container shipping, increased voyage costs, and raised insurance premiums.
US Concerns
US officials have warned that Russia may provide anti-ship missiles to the Houthis in retaliation for US support for Ukraine. While Bout’s weapons deal does not include anti-ship missiles, it still represents a significant Russian intervention in the Red Sea crisis.
Consequences of Attacks
The Houthis’ attacks are increasing the cost of essential goods for people in the region and threatening the principle of freedom of navigation in the Red Sea.