Humbled Saudis may yet clinch Opec+ deal

LONDON: Saudi Arabia has so far been thwarted by Russia in its push to shore up oil markets against the coronavirus. But when they meet next week, the humbled kingdom may yet clinch victory.

Ever since it became clear the outbreak was savaging energy demand in China – and oil prices everywhere – Riyadh has been pushing for swift production cuts to compensate. Russia, the most important partner in the producers’ coalition, rebuffed those entreaties, underscoring the dominant role that President Vladimir Putin has played since forging an alliance with the Saudis three years ago.