With Trump back, Putin works through Netanyahu to strike Israel-Lebanon deal
Russia's President Vladimir Putin indicated in recent days that Moscow is in contact with all parties in the Middle East to push for an end to the fighting.
TEL AVIV — Russia's President Vladimir Putin appears to be seeking a foothold in Middle Eastern peacemaking as President-elect Donald Trump returns to the scene, though Israel has yet to decide whether to rejoice or worry over the prospect.
Putin indicated on Nov. 8 that Russia is in touch with all parties in the Middle East conflict in a bid to find a way to resolve it. "We are in constant contact, literally with everyone. If not every day, then every week. Let’s try to follow this path," he said, without specifying any further.
An unnamed senior Russian official told Israeli public broadcaster Kan on Monday that Moscow is ready to play a role in an arrangement between Israel and Lebanon.
Putin "does not miss opportunities that come his way," an Israeli diplomatic source told Al-Monitor on condition of anonymity. “There is a rare moment here when almost all the interests of all sides converge into something useful for everyone." But the Israeli diplomatic source rated as “slim” prospects of a cease-fire between Israel and Hezbollah before Trump takes office in two months.
