Russia's Vladimir Putin seeks to fill void left by US in Middle East with unprecedented visit to Saudi Arabia

LONDON - Russian President Vladimir Putin arrives in Saudi Arabia on Thursday (Oct 10) for the start of a historic visit.

For the first time since the collapse of the Soviet Union, Russia is yet again a major player in the Middle East. And although the Saudis remain wary of Mr Putin, for the first time ever, Saudi Arabia is actively seeking a closer link with Russia.