Russian President Vladimir Putin has expressed readiness to consider supporting former U.S. President Donald Trump’s Middle East peace initiative, provided it genuinely contributes to a two-state solution between Israel and Palestine. Speaking on the ongoing crisis in Gaza, Putin described the humanitarian situation as “catastrophic” and emphasized the need for a stable political structure under the leadership of Palestinian Authority President Mahmoud Abbas.
Putin: “The Situation in Gaza Is Catastrophic”
During a press briefing in Moscow, Putin did not hold back his words when describing the current state of affairs in Gaza. He referred to the situation as “horrifying and unsustainable”, highlighting the urgent need for international efforts to stabilize the territory.
Putin added that Russia has long supported the two-state framework, viewing it as the most realistic way to achieve long-term peace in the Middle East. “If Trump’s plan can serve this goal, then we are ready to support it,” the Russian leader declared.
Backing Abbas and Rejecting Fragmentation
The Russian president underscored that any durable solution must involve the Palestinian Authority taking responsibility for Gaza’s governance. According to him, empowering Mahmoud Abbas and his administration would prevent further political fragmentation and open the path to negotiations.
“Leaving Gaza in a state of chaos will not serve peace. It is preferable that Mahmoud Abbas and the Palestinian Authority assume responsibility for administration,” Putin said. This statement reflects Moscow’s long-standing position of supporting Palestinian state institutions over fragmented leadership.
Trump’s Plan and Blair’s Possible Role
Putin also mentioned Donald Trump’s regional initiative, which aims to reshape the Middle East peace process. While details remain controversial, the Russian president suggested that elements of the plan could be constructive if aligned with international law and UN resolutions.
Interestingly, Putin referenced former UK Prime Minister Tony Blair, who has reportedly been linked with Trump’s peace efforts. Calling Blair a “seasoned and pragmatic politician,” Putin implied that experienced negotiators might help build confidence among both Israelis and Palestinians.
Russia-U.S. Relations in the Context of the Middle East
Beyond the Gaza crisis, Putin reflected on the broader state of Russia-U.S. relations. He acknowledged that while differences remain between Moscow and Washington, cooperation on global issues is both possible and necessary.
“Great powers will always have disagreements,” Putin explained. “But this does not mean we should avoid dialogue. On the contrary, our responsibility is to seek common ground, especially when it comes to issues of war and peace.”
Analysts see this as a subtle invitation for the United States and Russia to coordinate diplomatically in the Middle East, despite ongoing tensions in other arenas such as Ukraine and NATO expansion.
A Broader Middle East Perspective
Experts note that Putin’s remarks come at a time when the Middle East is undergoing deep instability. The war in Gaza has not only devastated local populations but also created ripple effects across the region. Rising tensions in Lebanon, the West Bank, and even the Persian Gulf underline the urgency of a negotiated settlement.
By signaling openness to Trump’s plan, Putin may be positioning Russia as a flexible power broker — willing to engage with U.S. initiatives while protecting its own regional influence.
Will Moscow and Washington Find Common Ground?
While skepticism remains about Trump’s approach — often criticized as favoring Israeli positions — Putin’s comments reveal a pragmatic Russian stance: if the plan leads to a real two-state framework, it deserves attention.
However, regional observers caution that words alone will not change realities on the ground. For Russia’s support to matter, it would need to work closely with regional players such as Egypt, Jordan, Turkey, and the Gulf states, as well as the United Nations Security Council.
