Russia's Expanding Influence: From Hamas to Taiwan

Despite the recent massacre in southern Israel carried out by Hamas militants, Russia has grown closer to the group, declining to condemn their actions and continuing to engage with them. This is consistent with Russia's historical pattern of supporting Palestinian militancy as a means to boost its standing in the Global South. Moscow's approach to terrorism is instrumental, but it also fears the spread of terrorism from the Middle East, as it has been repeatedly targeted by terrorists in the past. While Russia may grow closer symbolically to Hamas, there is little evidence to suggest an increase in material assistance. The crisis in the Middle East presents an opportunity for Russia to position itself as a diplomatic partner in the region and the wider Global South.