Peter Lyukimson, Israel. Exclusively to Vestnik Kavkaza
The Israeli mass media discuss a telephone talk between Israeli Premier Benjamin Netanyahu and Russian President Vladimir Putin on April 16th. The call content is kept in secret, but it is clear that it is devoted to Ukrainian events and the Iranian nuclear problem. It seems the call is connected with the growing pressure on Israel by the EU and the USA to criticize Russia and support the Western position in voting for anti-Russian resolutions in international structures.
The West calls Israel’s neutral position on the issues “dissatisfactory” and “disappointing.” Israel’s participation in anti-Russian sanctions is very important for the West, as many major Russian businessmen and some Russian officials and politicians prefer to keep their money in Israeli banks.
During the call Putin explained Russia's view of the Ukrainian events to Netanyahu. In the conclusion of the conversation, the leaders of Israel and Russia agreed to continue regular exchange of views on important matters.
Israeli observers emphasize that due to Israeli neutral position, it has to balance between Russia and the West. To maintain the balance, Netanyahu canceled a visit to Russia in June – he was personally invited by Vladimir Putin to St. Petersburg. Moreover, Netanyahu ordered that all contacts with Russia of any Israeli ministries and departments should be provided only after his personal permission.
At the same time, the official statement of the Israeli Foreign Ministry says that the stance of Israel on the situation in Ukraine remains the same: it is important for Israel to maintain friendly relations with Moscow, Kiev, and Washington.
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This week Israel expects thousand pilgrims from Russia, including representatives of the State Duma, the government, and the army. The official goal of the visit is celebration of Easter in Jerusalem. Moreover, the holiday is a nice reason for discussion of urgent problems at a round table.
