Steve Rosenberg: Russia seeks diplomatic and economic gains from Iran war
Steve Rosenberg: Russia seeks diplomatic and economic gains from Iran war
In a matter of days, two calls have taken place between the leaders of Russia and Iran. As the United States and Israel intensify their military actions against Iran, Russian President Vladimir Putin has positioned himself as a global mediator. However, this image faces scrutiny, given Russia’s ongoing conflict in Ukraine. The 2022 invasion, which the UN General Assembly labeled a breach of the UN Charter, remains a contentious issue. Despite this, Putin now advocates for a rapid political resolution of the Iran crisis, while continuing Russia’s war in Ukraine.
Russia maintains a “Comprehensive Strategic Partnership” with Iran, a framework that extends beyond mere collaboration. Recently, Putin reinforced Moscow’s backing for Tehran, yet the agreement lacks the depth of a mutual defense pact. Instead, Russia offers to act as a mediator, leveraging its influence in the region. During a call with former US President Donald Trump, Putin emphasized efforts to resolve the Iran dispute through diplomatic channels, engaging with Gulf leaders and other nations.
The Kremlin sees this as a strategic move to enhance its regional standing and strengthen ties with Washington. Trump’s administration, in particular, is viewed as a potential ally. This explains Putin’s measured criticism of Trump’s approach to the Iran war. “Putin wants to be helpful,” Trump remarked after their conversation. “I said, ‘You could be more helpful by ending the Ukraine-Russia war. That would be more helpful.'”
Meanwhile, the conflict offers Russia economic advantages. A recent spike in oil prices has bolstered government revenues, critical for sustaining operations in Ukraine. The federal budget relies on oil exports at $59 per barrel, but prices have risen sharply, nearing $120. Even after a slight decline, they remain above the threshold. Trump’s proposal to lift sanctions on certain countries could further benefit Russia, though Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky warned it would harm Kyiv.
Pro-Kremlin outlets like Komsomolskaya Pravda have praised the situation, suggesting high oil prices might lead the West to reconsider sanctions. Yet, some Russian media have been vocal in their disapproval of Trump’s handling of the Iran war. “The ‘peace president’ has simply lost his mind,” declared Moskovsky Komsomolets. “The Emperor has no clothes. Or rather, no sanity.”