Steve Rosenberg: Russia seeks diplomatic and economic gains from Iran war

Steve Rosenberg: Russia’s Strategic Gains in the Iran Conflict

In recent days, a notable diplomatic exchange has unfolded between the leaders of Russia and Iran. This week alone, the two presidents have engaged in two separate calls, underscoring Moscow’s active role in the Middle Eastern crisis. Amid ongoing U.S.-led strikes on Iran, Russian President Vladimir Putin has positioned himself as a global mediator, a stance that contrasts with his country’s military actions in Ukraine. The challenge for Putin lies in convincing international audiences of his peacemaking credentials, especially after the UN General Assembly condemned Russia’s 2022 invasion of Ukraine as a violation of the UN Charter.

Russia and Iran share a “Comprehensive Strategic Partnership” agreement, which has seen renewed emphasis this week. Putin reaffirmed Moscow’s “consistent backing” for Tehran, though this alliance lacks the binding nature of a mutual defense treaty. Instead, Russia’s involvement focuses on facilitating dialogue. During a Monday call with former U.S. President Donald Trump, according to Kremlin sources, Putin emphasized “the importance of rapid diplomatic solutions to the Iran conflict,” citing collaboration with Gulf leaders and other international figures as key factors.

The Kremlin sees this as a strategic move to strengthen its influence in the Middle East and Gulf regions. By engaging with Iran, Russia aims to showcase its global clout and foster ties with Washington. Trump’s remarks following the conversation highlighted this dual purpose: “Putin seeks to assist,” Trump remarked, “but he could do more by resolving the Ukraine-Russia conflict swiftly. That would be more impactful.”

While Russia promotes “de-escalation” in the Iran war, the conflict offers economic advantages. A recent surge in global oil prices has bolstered Russian government revenues, with crude oil hitting nearly $120 a barrel. Despite a temporary dip, prices remain above the $59 benchmark that underpins Russia’s federal budget. Trump’s suggestion to ease oil-related sanctions on certain nations further amplifies these benefits, potentially providing Moscow with a significant financial boost. Ukraine’s President Volodymyr Zelensky warned that such a move would be a “major setback” for Kyiv.

Though the Kremlin maintains a neutral tone toward Trump, some Russian media outlets have voiced sharp criticism. The pro-Kremlin newspaper Komsomolskaya Pravda recently highlighted the “advantages of high oil costs” as a reason for the West to reconsider sanctions. Another tabloid, Moskovsky Komsomolets, published a scathing editorial on Tuesday: “The ‘peace president’ has simply abandoned reason. The Emperor has no clothes—or no sanity.”