Moscow, April 12 (Petra) -- Russia expressed deep concern on Sunday over the continued suspension of negotiations aimed at establishing an independent Palestinian state, warning that the diplomatic vacuum in the Middle East risks triggering a fresh cycle of violence and confrontation.

Maria Zakharova, spokeswoman for the Russian Foreign Ministry, said during a press briefing that Moscow is increasingly alarmed by the paralysis of efforts to improve conditions in the Palestinian territories. Zakharova emphasized that the Palestinian cause, and the broader spectrum of Middle East settlement issues, must not be treated as a secondary priority or become a hostage to current military and political developments. "Russia is convinced that the Palestinian issue cannot be viewed on a residual basis," Zakharova said, adding that a failure to address the core of the conflict would lead to the reproduction of circles of violence and regional instability.

The spokeswoman’s comments come amid a prolonged stalemate in peace efforts, which Moscow suggests is being exacerbated by the shifting geopolitical landscape in the region. Russia has long advocated for a two-state solution and has called for a resumption of direct talks to ensure long-term security.

//Petra// AF