Muthomi Ireri
Russian President Vladimir Putin welcomed Palestinian Authority President Mahmoud Abbas in Moscow on Tuesday, reiterating Russia’s support for the establishment of a Palestinian state.
Their discussions covered a range of issues, including bilateral relations, the broader Middle Eastern situation, and the ongoing conflict in Gaza.
Putin expressed Russia’s concerns, stating, “Today, Russia is compelled to protect its interests and citizens through military means. The situation in the Middle East, particularly in Palestine, is of great concern to us. We have deep and longstanding ties with the Arab world, especially with Palestine, which we highly value. We are deeply troubled by the humanitarian crisis unfolding in Palestine.”
He reaffirmed Russia’s consistent stance on the necessity of a peaceful resolution with Israel, emphasizing that Russia’s position on the matter has remained steadfast.
“Our position remains unchanged. It was established long ago and is not influenced by temporary circumstances. We believe that achieving a lasting, reliable, and stable peace in the region requires the implementation of all United Nations resolutions, particularly the creation of a fully independent Palestinian state,” Putin said.
President Abbas highlighted the urgent need for global support in Palestine’s quest for full United Nations membership and called for a peace conference to renew the international community’s commitment to the two-state solution.
Abbas had initially planned to visit Moscow in November of last year but postponed the trip following the violent attack on Israel by Hamas on October 7, which led to a deadly response from Israel.
Russia, which maintains strong ties with both Iranian Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei and Arab leaders, including Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, condemned the recent assassination of Hamas leader Ismail Haniyeh.
Moscow has urged all involved parties to avoid actions that could further destabilize the Middle East and has consistently criticized the West for neglecting the critical need for an independent Palestinian state within the 1967 borders.
Putin remains firm in advocating for a Palestinian state as a solution to the conflict with Israel.
President Abbas arrived in Moscow on Monday and is scheduled to meet with Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan in Turkey on Wednesday.
Dj Vnyash
