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

Steve Rosenberg: Russia Seeks Diplomatic and Economic Gains from Iran War

Two calls between the leaders of Russia and Iran have taken place in just seven days. Amid ongoing U.S. and Israeli strikes on Iran, Russian President Vladimir Putin has positioned himself as a global mediator, though his image as a peacekeeper faces challenges. The 2022 invasion of Ukraine, which drew widespread condemnation from the United Nations, casts doubt on his role as a neutral arbiter. Yet, Russia persists in its conflict with Iran, backed by a “Comprehensive Strategic Partnership” agreement. This week, Putin reaffirmed Moscow’s “unwavering support” for Tehran, but the alliance lacks a formal mutual defense pact. Instead, Russia offers mediation, aiming to strengthen its influence in the Gulf and Middle East.

The Kremlin’s outreach to Washington is another strategic move. During a Monday conversation with former U.S. President Donald Trump, Putin emphasized the need for a rapid diplomatic solution to the Iran crisis, citing discussions with regional leaders and the Iranian president. This effort underscores Russia’s desire to enhance its standing in the region and maintain ties with the Trump administration. The partnership is seen as beneficial for Moscow’s broader goals in Ukraine, which explains Putin’s cautious approach in avoiding public criticism of Trump. As Trump noted, “Putin wants to be helpful,” though he pointedly remarked that ending the Ukraine-Russia war would be “more helpful.”

While Russia advocates for “de-escalation” in Iran, the conflict also offers economic advantages. The recent spike in global oil prices has provided a significant boost to Russian government revenues. With crude oil prices climbing to nearly $120 a barrel, far above the $59 threshold in Russia’s federal budget, Moscow benefits from sustained high energy prices. This financial windfall supports its war efforts in Ukraine. Additionally, Trump has hinted at easing oil-related sanctions on certain countries, potentially offering Russia further relief. Ukraine’s President Volodymyr Zelensky called this a “serious blow” to Kyiv, urging Trump to resist.

“Expensive oil is a reason [for the West] to cancel sanctions,” declared the headline of today’s pro-Kremlin Komsomolskaya Pravda. Meanwhile, another Russian tabloid, Moskovsky Komsomolets, mocked Trump’s stance, writing: “The ‘peace president’ has simply lost his mind. The Emperor has no clothes. Or rather, no sanity.”