Putin said he would not comment on the Saxony-Anhalt state election, calling it a purely German domestic matter.

SOUTH KOREA'S LEE said the country's reliance on Middle East crude has fallen to about 50% from as high as 70% within months after sending oil envoys, stepping up crude diplomacy, diversifying import sources and subsidising long-haul transport. Seoul has used strategic reserve swap arrangements to keep crude flows stable without drawing down stocks. Domestic refined fuel prices and supply remain stable, aided by a maximum-price limit and export volume controls. The government will continue import diversification and work to keep shipping lanes open and vessels and crews safe, but dependence still sits near 50% and the conflict in the Middle East remains a source of market risk.

Iran's foreign ministry spokesman confirmed plans to hold a regional meeting involving Gulf littoral states.