Moscow's much smaller neighbours have been looking elsewhere for energy, trade, investment, and security. That is not in Russia's plans, but Putin knows the new US president is unlikely to help them.

One of the world's poorest nations currently has one of the fastest growing economies in Africa. Looking at the map and surveys of its mineral deposits shows why that might continue.

An economic giant, any combined North American state would be larger than Russia and richer than China, with a GDP of $31.2tn, producing almost twice as much oil as Saudi Arabia

Conflict, drought, tariffs, and inflation are making it harder to feed people in the Arab world. Yet if the wars in Ukraine and Sudan end with investment in agriculture, the clouds may brighten.

Relations have plummeted between Paris and Algiers. The latter sought a fairer deal, but the former seemed to want only oil, gas, and a grain market. As French firms leave, Algeria is moving on.

A big drive to attract new visitors from around the world is beginning to pay off as social, economic, and bureaucratic changes take effect.

A strategy to rebuild post-conflict Arab economies is slowly taking shape despite Israeli intransigence. It's an enormous task, but the cost of inaction is higher.

The unexplained dismissal of the finance minister leaves more questions than answers as the highly indebted country seeks to avoid a 2025 default

As Kuwait marks its National Day, it continues to grapple with the lingering effects of past crises while confronting new economic, political, and security challenges

As Syria grapples with severe electricity shortages, recent power-purchase deals show how power is becoming a tool for diplomacy and could bring about a regional electricity exchange market