Putin Seeks Role as Middle East Mediator amid Tensions

In a bid to assert influence in Middle Eastern affairs, Russian President Vladimir Putin has proposed mediating a resolution between Israel and Iran. Speaking at the St. Petersburg International Economic Forum, Putin shared Moscow's diplomatic proposals with Iran, Israel, and the United States.

'It's a delicate issue, but a solution could be found,' he told senior news leaders, underscoring Russia's ability to balance relationships with both Israeli security concerns and Iranian nuclear ambitions. Despite his suggestion, U.S. President Donald Trump urged Putin to prioritize resolving the conflict with Ukraine first.

Putin's mediation offer comes as Russia maintains economic and military ties with Iran while preserving relations with Israel. The Russian president also took the opportunity at the forum to highlight Russia's economic successes and attract foreign investment, amidst boycotts from Western executives following the onset of the Ukraine war.

(With inputs from agencies.)