Democratic senator threatens to freeze weapons sales to Saudi Arabia over support of Russia

Strong remarks by chairman of the Senate foreign relations committee indicate possible sea change in US policy

The congressional backlash against Saudi Arabia escalated sharply on Monday as a powerful Democratic senator threatened to freeze weapons sales and security cooperation with the kingdom after its decision to support Russia over the interests of the US.

Washington's anger with its Saudi allies has intensified since last week's Opec+ decision to cut oil production by 2m barrels, which was seen as a slight to the Biden administration weeks ahead of critical midterm elections, and an important boost to Russia.