Diplomatic Efforts Continue for Release of Russian Citizens Held in Gaza

26 January

In a significant development in the ongoing crisis in the Gaza Strip, Russian Presidential Special Representative for the Middle East and Africa, Deputy Foreign Minister Mikhail Bogdanov convened a meeting with Qatari Ambassador to Moscow Ahmed bin Nasser bin Jassim Al-Thani. The gathering included the families of Russian citizens Andrei Kozlov, Alexander Lobanov, and Alexander Trufanov, who are currently detained in Gaza.

 

The Russian Foreign Ministry issued a statement following the meeting, expressing gratitude towards the leaders of both Russia and Qatar for their focused efforts in securing the release of the hostages. The families present expressed their hope for the continuation of these efforts, aiming to recover their loved ones.

 

Bogdanov emphasized the importance of this humanitarian issue and its top priority status within Russian diplomacy. He reiterated his commitment to maintaining active contact with all relevant parties to resolve the crisis in the Gaza Strip.

 

The meeting also served as a platform for discussions on key issues related to the Middle East agenda, particularly focusing on the challenging humanitarian situation in Gaza and the Palestinian-Israeli conflict. Furthermore, the potential for expanding Russian-Qatari mutually beneficial cooperation was discussed, including the maintenance of regular contacts at various levels.

 

 

GSV "Russia - Islamic World"

Photo: Russian Foreign Ministry

Based on materials from TASS