In a recent phone call on February 7, 2023, Russian President Vladimir Putin expressed gratitude to UAE President Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan for their collaboration in secret services. This acknowledgment comes following the Emirati assistance in the capture of a suspect associated with a failed assassination attempt on Lieutenant General Vladimir Alexeyev, a high-ranking official within Russia's Main Intelligence Directorate (GRU). The details surrounding the cooperation and the methods employed remain undisclosed.

The assassination attempt on Alexeyev occurred on February 6 in Moscow, igniting concerns regarding the security of senior military figures and the effectiveness of Russia's domestic and foreign intelligence operations. Alexeyev has held significant roles, being a key Russian figure in negotiations during critical military operations, including the evacuation processes related to the Mariupol Garrison. This incident raises implications about potential threats to high-ranking officials and the international networks attempting to undermine Russian leadership.

Furthermore, this situation reveals a growing alliance between Russia and the UAE, emphasizing their cooperative efforts beyond economic and diplomatic realms, extending into security collaboration. The phone conversation highlights that both nations are willing to share intelligence resources to combat perceived threats, which may influence regional power dynamics. It also signals the UAE's increasing involvement in international security matters with a notable player like Russia, suggesting a strategic partnership that could have wider geopolitical ramifications.