MOSCOW, October 27 (RIA Novosti) — Russia supports the authorities of Yemen in the fight against terrorism and the provision of regional security, Russian Defense Minister Sergei Shoigu stated Monday.
"We understand that <…> you need a strong army that can help stabilize [the situation in] the country and in the whole region. [We] support the republic's leadership in the fight against terrorism and the restoration of order," Shoigu said in Moscow at a bilateral meeting with the Minister of Defense of Yemen.
"Only together we can stand up to terrorism," he added.
Shoigu also said that Yemen is experiencing difficult times and expressed hope that the country will be able to restore peace and order and that it will develop effectively.
The Russian minister expressed interest in developing military cooperation and increasing the efficiency of military contacts.
Yemen's Defense Minister Mohammed Nasser Ahmed recalled that President of Yemen Abd Rabbuh Mansur Hadi met with his Russian counterpart Vladimir Putin and "explained to him possible threats to the stability of the Republic of Yemen," and explained that "it is necessary to support Yemen."
After the 2011 power transition, Yemen has seen an increase in terrorist activity, particularly by al-Qaeda fighters. The Houthis, the main opposition force in Yemen, have been carrying out protests in the country since mid-August, demanding the resignation of the Yemeni government. Houthi militias have taken over many Yemeni cities, including areas of the capital Sanaa. The fighters claim they are acting to protect civilians from terrorism.
