From Der Speigel Germany
By Charles Hawley

Following the collapse of the Soviet Union, Russia seemed to cede much of its influence in the Middle East to the United States. No longer. Now, Moscow appears eager to present itself as a counterbalance to Washington in the region — with major geopolitical consequences.

Russia’s President Vladimir Putin is hoping to expand Moscow’s influence abroad.
News from the Middle East can be confusing. And that has been especially true recently. One day, we read that Iran is halting all talks concerning its controversial nuclear program. The next day, the Iranians have changed their mind.

One week we read that Hamas has won democratic elections in the Palestinian Authority. The next week, the US, Europe and Israel are refusing to speak with the terrorist group.

But their has been one constant: Russia. And Russian President Vladimir Putin’s attempt to increase his country’s influence in the Middle East.

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