RAMALLAH, West Bank — Palestinians remain silent about the Russian war on Ukraine, as the Palestinian Authority (PA) has yet to take an official stance on Moscow’s military attack that was announced by Russian President Vladimir Putin Feb. 24. The PA appears to be trying to avoid any negative political repercussions that could result from a stance it might have on the ongoing war.

However, several reasons could push the PA to stick to a “neutrality” position, as it represents a people under occupation, demanding justice from the international community. Therefore, the PA needs the support of the world’s countries politically and economically, which requires it to disassociate itself from the ongoing conflict.

The PA also relies on European financial aid estimated at $300 million annually, bookmarked for vital sector developments, most notably infrastructure projects. This is not to mention that the European Union’s political position is adherence to a two-state solution, opposition to Israeli settlements and implementation of projects in Area C in the West Bank, which is under full Israeli control.

The PA also awaits the US administration to implement its pledges to open a consulate in East Jerusalem, reopen the PLO offices in Washington and resume economic assistance — all of which are gains the PA believes it could lose should it take a stance in favor of Russia.