Russian President Vladimir Putin’s one-day trip to Israel has highlighted a negative turn in Russia’s previously neutral stance on the Israel-Hamas conflict. Initially, Russia had called for calm and a cease-fire. However, as the number of Palestinian casualties grew, so did Russia’s criticism of Israel’s actions. This shift in Russia’s position can be linked to its close relationship with Israel’s enemy, Iran, which has provided support to Russia since 2022.
Russia has gone from issuing cautious statements to openly opposing Israel’s military actions. This new position stems from Russia’s necessity to maintain its ties and interests with countries like Iran, which are valuable in terms of military supply and global oil pricing. The conflict has sparked concern, with Russia labeling Israel’s conduct as offensive and unacceptable.
Russia’s mounting dissatisfaction with the Israeli government is not a sudden development. Even before the recent escalation of hostilities, Russia and Israel were experiencing a decline in relations, particularly due to Israel’s refusal to impose sanctions on Russia following its invasion of Ukraine. The two countries also diverged in their responses to the conflict in Iran.
With the situation becoming more precarious, Russia is increasingly viewing Israel as an ally of the United States, which has led to a reassessment of its relationship with Israel. Despite Russian President Vladimir Putin’s reluctance to directly condemn Israel, the growing perception is of Israel being part of a destabilizing American policy.
Going forward, Russia will need to carefully navigate its shifting dynamics with Israel, especially if there is a change of leadership in Israel and if Russia wants to protect its relationships with Iran and Saudi Arabia. The situation demonstrates the complexities of geopolitics and the ways in which they can influence global dynamics.
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