Read previewIn the wake of US and UK airstrikes in Yemen early Friday, Russia sought to portray itself as an opponent to impetuous Western aggression. Zakharova said the strikes showed a "complete disregard for international law" and were "escalating the situation in the region." AdvertisementYemen's Houthi loyalists lift their weapons as they take part in an armed parade on December 20, 2023, in Amran province, Yemen. The Houthis say they are acting in support of Palestinians amid Israel's attacks on Gaza, and are targeting vessels bound for Israel. A wider conflict in the region would divert Western focus away from helping defend Ukraine from Russia's invasion, and sap Western resources.

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