Russian President Vladimir Putin arrived on May 26 in Uzbekistan, where he was met at the Tashkent airport by President Shavkat Mirziyoev amid reports some Western nations are trying to pull Central Asian nations away from Russia’s sphere of influence. Tashkent, the capital of the former Soviet republic, is decorated with flags of the two countries for the two-day visit. The Uzbek presidential press service said their meeting discussed strengthening a "comprehensive strategic partnership and alliance" and the "development of trade and economic cooperation.” International investigations have identified Uzbekistan as one of the main entry points into Russia for goods that are subject to sanctions. Putin has traveled sparingly since he launched Russia's full-scale invasion of Ukraine in February 2022.
In Rare Foreign Foray, Putin Arrives In Uzbekistan For 2-Day Visit
Uzbek President Shavkat Mirziyoev (left) and Russian leader Vladimir Putin at Tashkent airport on May 26.