One of the famous Russian arms dealers has returned to the world of weapons after being in prison in the United States. He was arrested on ‌charges of terrorism, but now the Biden-Harris administration has signed the order for his release. Now he is back in Russia and is selling weapons to different terrorist groups, such as Houthis. Iran is a great supporter of this group and operates in Yemen. 

After the October 7 incident, the Houthis have targeted many ships in the Red Sea and Gulf of Aden. They not only launched an attack on the ship but also targeted Israel and the United States Navy ships. The Houthis have even shot down US surveillance drones, which cost more than $30 million each.

Recently, Houthis planned to meet with Bout. For this purpose, they visited‌ Moscow and made a deal with Bout, having a cost of $10 million. The deal was about‌ creating ‌automatic weapons. This deal highlights that still Bout poses a danger to the world. Furthermore, some other arms deals are also a great threat to the US and other nations. 

They keep selling weapons to groups that cause violence and instability in areas where the US has interests. Bout’s activities are a reminder of the dangers posed by arms trafficking around the world.

Russian media explored the recent interview with Bout. According to him, the allegations that he was selling weapons again were not true. However, he did not fully refuse these claims; his main purpose was to not tell people about his doing. 

According to the report, the Houthis traveled to Moscow and claimed that they were going there to buy pesticides and vehicles. Their statement made people confused about their real intentions. Another report highlighted that it is uncertain whether Bout was working for the Russian government or if he just had its silent approval for the talks. This confusion makes the situation more complicated. It suggests that there may be hidden agendas behind their actions. 

The lack of clear information highlights the complicated relationships between different groups and how they might use different excuses to achieve their goals, whether political or military. This situation shows the challenges in understanding international negotiations and arms deals.

The Houthis have just bought new assault rifles and said they want to get better weapons, like Kornet missiles and antiaircraft systems. 

This highlights their continuing military ambitions and efforts to strengthen their aim and power. At the same time, Russia-based arms dealer,  Viktor Bout was released in December 2022 in a prisoner swap for WNBA player Brittney Griner. Bout’s release raises many questions about international rules and prisoner exchanges. Back in 2011, when he was convicted of terrorism for attempting to sell missiles to the Revolutionary Armed Forces of Colombia (FARC). His goal was clear. He wanted to attack ‌US military helicopters. This action showcased the dangerous impact of arms trafficking on worldwide security. 

These events show the big problems armed groups and illegal arms trade cause. They still threaten stability in different regions.

What is the history of Bout’s case?

Former Attorney General Eric Holder said in November 2011, that Viktor Bout was one of the famous arms dealers. He is being punished due to his own illegal actions. Holder also said that Bout was the cause of tension for people across the world due to his weapons-selling business. He was also a supporter of those who wanted to commit wars. Now he could spend the many years of his life in jail. All those terrorists who have aim to hurt American interests will have the same fate as Bout. 

Preet Bharara, the former US Attorney for New York, explained that Bout was ready to sell a huge amount of weapons, even more than some small countries have, to these terrorists. This could have endangered American lives. The quick decision by the court shows that justice has been served, and a dangerous man is now in jail. Bharara also praised the Drug Enforcement Administration agents who worked hard to investigate Bout and bring him to justice. This case highlights the need to stop arms trafficking and keep people safe.