Title: Putin and Trump: Behind the Scenes of Middle East Diplomacy
By Ivor Bennett, Russia Correspondent
In the latest chapter of international diplomacy, former U.S. President Donald Trump takes center stage as a self-proclaimed peacemaker amid escalating tensions in the Israel-Iran conflict. However, the influential role of Russian President Vladimir Putin behind the scenes is becoming increasingly evident.
Since the outbreak of war between Israel and Iran, Putin has been tirelessly attempting to broker a ceasefire. His diplomatic outreach includes direct conversations with key figures such as Trump, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, and Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian. Additionally, he has maintained dialogues with leaders from China, Iraq, and the UAE, culminating in a recent meeting with Iran’s foreign minister in Moscow.
Putin’s motivations appear twofold: preserving Russia’s regional interests and potentially gaining leverage in the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. Iran stands as a crucial ally for Moscow, particularly following the downfall of the Assad regime in Syria. A destabilized Iran could have severe geopolitical repercussions for Russia, something the Kremlin has characterized as "unimaginable."
Moreover, if Putin successfully convinces Iran to adopt a restrained response to U.S. strikes, it could strengthen Russia’s bargaining power. A narrative could emerge portraying Russia as the agent of moderation—suggesting that if Russia can persuade Iran to step back, perhaps the U.S. might reevaluate its military involvement in Ukraine.
This scenario aligns with Moscow’s attempts to mediate U.S.-Iran nuclear discussions, a strategy that could yield reciprocal diplomatic advantages. While the full extent of Russia’s influence remains uncertain, Putin’s involvement in these negotiations is unmistakably active and multifaceted. The ongoing developments may reshape international alliances and power dynamics considerably.
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