Moscow, Apr 17 (V7N) – Russian President Vladimir Putin has expressed gratitude to Hamas and praised its leadership during a meeting with three Russian citizens who were previously held captive by the group. The meeting took place at the Kremlin on Wednesday, according to Turkey’s Anadolu Agency.

Putin acknowledged the efforts behind the release of Alexander Trufanov, Elena Trufanov, and Sapir Cohen, stating that their return was possible due to Russia's historically stable relations with the Palestinian people and various organizations, including Hamas.

“I do not want to go into any political interpretation at this moment. What happened is very unfortunate. However, the fact that you are free today is due to Russia's long-standing stable relations with the Palestinian people, representatives and various organizations,” Putin said.

Putin refrained from commenting on the ongoing Israeli offensive in Gaza, which has drawn international criticism and widespread humanitarian concern.

The Trufanov family members were abducted during Hamas’s unprecedented October 2023 attack on Israel. Elena Trufanov and Sapir Cohen were released in November during the first phase of a temporary ceasefire agreement. Alexander was released in February 2024.

The meeting highlights Russia’s diplomatic engagement in the Middle East and its continued outreach to non-state actors amid the ongoing Israel-Gaza conflict.

END/MSS/AJ