Foreign media reported that Vladimir Putin appears to be smiling as U.S. and Israeli airstrikes have sparked a war with Iran.
The conflict has boosted Russia’s standing in the Middle East, strengthened its ties with the United States, and created an opportunity for Moscow to profit from rising global oil prices.
The Wall Street Journal and the BBC say Putin is focused on securing practical gains from the Iran conflict.
Economically, Russia is benefiting from higher global oil prices after the Strait of Hormuz was effectively closed.
Moscow, which had been hit by falling oil prices and sanctions on crude trading, has seen the oil-price surge linked to the Iran conflict give its economy a much-needed lift.
Washington has even discussed easing sanctions on Russian crude to help stabilize global oil markets, a move that would provide Moscow with some breathing room.
Putin has positioned himself as a potential mediator in the Iran conflict, raising his profile across the Middle East.
The BBC also noted that Putin could try to leverage his ties with former President Trump to strengthen Russia’s position in the war in Ukraine.
If Western attention remains divided and an easing of oil sanctions frees up funds for Russia’s war effort, Ukraine would likely be harmed.
Elina Ribakova of the Peterson Institute for International Economics said that Russia has not yet opened a new front in its confrontation with the West, but if the current situation persists for six months, it could embolden Moscow.
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Lee Jun-heum (humi@yna.co.kr)
