Hamas’ relations with Russia have improved and grown in recent years, with movement leaders regularly visiting Moscow since 2015. A delegation headed by Hamas political bureau member Moussa Abu Marzouk most recently made the trek, meeting June 25 with Mikhail Bogdanov, Russian deputy foreign minister and special presidential envoy to the Middle East. Hamas noted on its website that Marzouk and Bogdanov explored bilateral relations and exchanged opinions on issues in the region, Palestinian developments and Hamas' faltering attempt at reconciliation with Fatah.

Marzouk told Al-Monitor that they also covered issues pertaining to “alleviating the Gaza blockade, reducing the Palestinian Authority [PA] sanctions against the enclave and exploring potential Russian aid.” The so-called deal of the century, US President Donald Trump's forthcoming Middle East peace plan, was also brought up.

“Regarding the US ‘deal of the century,’ Russians asserted that they were not consulted and that they are neither partners in it nor concerned about its success,” Marzouk said. “Moscow believes Washington isn't qualified to solve the problems in the region. We believe Russia is more qualified, as it has balanced relations with all parties. We consider it a world power and an effective member of the international Middle East Quartet and the [UN] Security Council. The PA should not worry about our visit, as it's not aware of its details.”

After meeting with the Hamas delegation, Bogdanov revealed that Moscow is considering inviting Palestinians from Hamas and Fatah to visit to work toward a reconciliation. He asserted that the United States has not shown Russia its Middle East plan and added that Russia is steadfast in its support of the Palestinian people and in providing aid to relieve the humanitarian crisis in Gaza.