Russian President Vladimir Putin was one of the first world leaders to congratulate incoming Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on forming his sixth government. “Russia very much appreciates your personal long-term contribution to the strengthening of friendly relations between our countries. I hope that the new government under your leadership will continue the policy of developing constructive Russian-Israeli cooperation in all areas for the benefit of our peoples and in the interests of ensuring peace and security in the Middle East,” read Putin’s Dec. 29 message. 

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy was also quick to congratulate Netanyahu, tweeting, “I wish success on the way to the welfare and security of Israel. I confirm Ukraine’s readiness for close cooperation to strengthen our ties and confront common challenges, achieve prosperity and victory over evil.”

In his past terms as premier, Netanyahu had cultivated a close relationship with the Russian leader. Between 2015 and 2020, Netanyahu visited Russia at least seven times. Under Netanyahu’s leadership, the two countries established a military communication channel to avoid misunderstandings or accidental mutual targeting in Syria's skies. Israel’s security system considers this channel essential in its fight against Iranian entrenchment in Syria and against Iranian efforts to supply weapons for Hezbollah.  

When Russia first invaded Ukraine, Netanyahu, then opposition head, was cautious in his statements not to directly attack Putin. It was only during his election campaign, and on the backdrop of repeated attacks by Zelenskyy against the Bennett-Lapid government, that Netanyahu hinted he might reconsider Israel’s refusal to supply Ukraine with weapons. Netanyahu will now have to face a dilemma on that geopolitical front.