Russian President Vladimir Putin is set to meet with Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas on Tuesday during Abbas’ visit to Russia. Arriving on Monday, Abbas aims to discuss the ongoing Gaza conflict with Putin, highlighting Russia’s potential role in addressing the situation.

Palestinian Ambassador Abdel Hafiz Nofal, based in Moscow, confirmed the meeting, emphasizing the importance of consulting Russia in these challenging times. Abbas, who leads the Fatah movement, a longstanding rival of Hamas, seeks to explore ways to address the escalating tensions since the October 7 attacks on Israel.

Russia, known for maintaining relationships with key players in the Middle East, has faced a shifting landscape since the onset of the Israel-Hamas war and its own conflict with Ukraine. Recently, Putin has aligned more closely with Israel’s adversaries, including Hamas and Iran. The Kremlin has repeatedly criticized Israel’s response to the attacks and urged for restraint, reflecting a broader shift in its Middle East policy.

The discussions between Putin and Abbas could signal a significant moment in Russia’s involvement in the region, as both leaders navigate the complexities of the ongoing conflict.