In a significant diplomatic development, Russian President Vladimir Putin has thrown his support behind Israel's right to self-defense during the ongoing Israel-Hamas conflict. He has also called for the establishment of an "independent Palestinian state with East Jerusalem as its capital," adding a unique dimension to the discussions surrounding the long-standing Israeli-Palestinian conflict.
Speaking at the Commonwealth of Independent States (CIS) summit on Friday, Putin stated that "Russia proceeds from the postulate that a negotiated solution to the Palestinian-Israeli conflict has no alternatives." He emphasized the importance of the United Nations' two-state formula, which entails the creation of an independent Palestinian state with East Jerusalem as its capital, coexisting peacefully and securely with Israel.
Putin's remarks come in the wake of Hamas' attacks, which he described as "unprecedented brutality." He highlighted Israel's right to defend itself and ensure its peaceful existence, acknowledging the challenges the nation currently faces.
"The way I see it, in a situation like this and in this particular place, there is simply no alternative to two independent states," Putin concluded. This endorsement of a two-state solution by the Russian President marks a significant shift in Russia's stance on the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.
Putin's visit to Kyrgyzstan, his first foreign trip following the issuance of an arrest warrant by the International Criminal Court (ICC) for alleged war crimes, underlines the importance of his international engagement. The two-day trip included his participation in the CIS summit, a regional organization composed of former Soviet republics. This visit occurred amid discussions about Russia's influence in the region, which has faced challenges in recent years.
While Putin has rarely left Russia since sending troops to Ukraine in early 2022, he is anticipated to travel to China for the upcoming third Belt and Road Forum in Beijing next week. This move reflects Russia's continued efforts to engage with key international partners despite external pressures.
It's worth noting that neither Kyrgyzstan nor China are signatories of the ICC, meaning they are not subject to the court's jurisdiction. This fact allows for Putin's international travels without fear of legal consequences.
During a meeting with Kyrgyz President Sadyr Japarov, Putin emphasized Russia's role as a primary trading partner and the leading investor in Kyrgyzstan. This underscores the commitment of both nations to strengthen their collaboration, particularly in the economic and trade sectors. While Putin praised the significant increase in trade between Russia and Kyrgyzstan, some Western experts have raised concerns that this growth may be linked to Russian companies attempting to circumvent international sanctions.
In the coming days, Putin is expected to participate in events commemorating the 20th anniversary of Russia's airbase near Kant, Kyrgyzstan. This airbase serves as a strategic means for Moscow to extend its influence in the region, further solidifying Russia's position as a key player in Central Asia.
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