Breaking News: Viktor Bout, the notorious Russian arms dealer, is reportedly back in the international arms trade, according to the Wall Street Journal.
Reports suggest that Bout, also known as "the merchant of death," is attempting to facilitate the sale of small arms to Yemen's Iran-backed Houthi militants. Sources claim that Houthi representatives met with Bout in Moscow to negotiate a deal worth $10 million for automatic weapons.
However, the potential arms transfers have not yet been completed and do not include advanced weaponry that could threaten the U.S. military's operations in the region.
While Multibagger has not independently verified these claims, the Kremlin and Russia's defense ministry have not responded to requests for comment.
Since his return to Russia in 2022, after a high-profile prisoner swap, Bout has maintained a low public profile and joined the Kremlin-loyal Liberal Democratic Party.
Prior to his arrest in 2008, Bout was one of the world's most wanted criminals, involved in arms trafficking to rogue states and rebel groups across the globe. His life story even inspired a Hollywood film, "Lord of War," starring Nicolas Cage.
Analysis:
Viktor Bout, a former arms dealer, has reportedly reentered the international arms trade, potentially impacting global security and geopolitical dynamics. His involvement with Houthi militants in Yemen raises concerns about the proliferation of small arms in conflict zones. Despite his high-profile history, Bout's recent activities highlight the ongoing challenges of arms control and illicit trade networks. Investors and policymakers should monitor these developments closely to assess their implications for regional stability and security.