Mahmoud Abbas on Putin
TL;DR
Mahmoud Abbas views Vladimir Putin as a crucial, long-standing friend who provides essential political and financial support to the Palestinian cause.
Key Points
The President views Russia as one of the dearest friends of the Palestinian people, noting a strong friendship spanning over fifty years.
During a meeting in January 2026, he urged Putin for an immediate ceasefire in Gaza, a full Israeli withdrawal, and unrestricted humanitarian access.
He categorically opposes plans by Americans and Israelis to expatriate Palestinians beyond Palestinian territory, a stance Russia appears to support.
Summary
Mahmoud Abbas regards Russian President Vladimir Putin and his nation as a deeply significant and reliable ally of the Palestinian people. During meetings, the Palestinian President consistently emphasizes the decades-long strong friendship between the two nations, asserting that Russia has historically been unwavering in its political and diplomatic backing for Palestinian self-determination. Abbas specifically expresses profound gratitude for Russia's economic and financial aid, noting its crucial importance to his people amid suffering and destruction in the region.
The relationship is characterized by ongoing high-level coordination, particularly concerning the Middle East situation, where Putin has reiterated support for a fully-fledged Palestinian state based on international legal resolutions. Abbas has used these meetings, held on the sidelines of commemorative events, to request support for immediate ceasefires, unrestricted humanitarian access to Gaza, and to categorically oppose any proposed expatriation of Palestinians. The Palestinian Authority perceives Moscow as a friend upon whom they rely in many spheres, treating the city as a second home.
Key Quotes
We are against the removal of Palestinians from Palestine, as President Trump spoke about,” Abbas said, calling the plan “unacceptable.”
Frequently Asked Questions
Mahmoud Abbas considers Vladimir Putin and Russia to be close and historically significant friends of the Palestinian people. He relies on Russia for essential political and diplomatic backing regarding the conflict. The Palestinian leader frequently expresses gratitude for the ongoing Russian support.
The available information suggests a consistent and positive relationship between Mahmoud Abbas and Vladimir Putin over time. He consistently frames Russia as an unwavering supporter of the Palestinian cause across various meetings. There is no immediate evidence indicating a change in this foundational diplomatic alignment.
Mahmoud Abbas thanked Putin for receiving him and emphasized the decades-long strong friendship between their nations. He assured the Russian President that Palestinians are resolved not to abandon their land, hoping for peace through his support. He specifically mentioned Russia's unwavering stance in supporting Palestine.
Sources5
Abbas Meets Putin in Moscow, Calls for Ceasefire and End to Gaza Blockade
Russian-Palestinian talks
Putin tells Abbas 'concerned' about Palestinian civilian toll|Arab News Japan
PA's Abbas meets with Putin in Moscow
Russia says it will respond if Finland hosts nuclear weapons, accuses Helsinki of stoking tension
* This is not an exhaustive list of sources.