Overview

• Alexander Trufanov, a Russian-Israeli hostage held for nearly 500 days, was released in February 2025 as part of ceasefire negotiations between Hamas and Israel.
• President Vladimir Putin met with Trufanov at the Kremlin on April 16, 2025, thanking Hamas for what he described as a humanitarian gesture in facilitating the release.
• Putin highlighted Russia's longstanding ties with Palestinian factions as instrumental in securing the freedom of hostages and pledged continued efforts for others still held, including Maxim Herkin.
• Trufanov expressed gratitude for his release and urged Putin to prioritize the liberation of other hostages, whom he referred to as his 'brothers.'
• Russia continues to maintain diplomatic relations with both Israel and Palestinian groups while advocating for a two-state solution to the ongoing conflict.