Moscow presents itself as Tehran's ally, but its real ambition may be to turn Middle East chaos into a global diplomatic windfall.

Sen. Tom Cotton (R-AR) questioned the idea of Russian President Vladimir Putin playing a role in the negotiations between Israel and Iran, citing how Putin did “nothing” when Syria requested Russia’s aid last year.

Iran conflict could open opportunities for Russia to possibly become a power broker to help end the confrontation.

German Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul has expressed scepticism over Russian President Vladimir Putin's ability to mediate between Israel and Iran as the conflict between them intensifies. During a stopover in Cyprus after a visit to the Middle East,

Trump posted online that he got a birthday greeting from Putin, with whom he agreed Iran-Israel war must end, and said he told Putin "his war" should end, too. The post Trump Says Putin ‘Very Nicely’ Wished Him Happy Birthday and They Agreed ‘War in Israel-Iran Should End’ on Hour-Long Call first appeared on Mediaite.

By Ben Aris in Berlin With its long-standing good relations with both Tel Aviv and Tehran, the outbreak of war in the Middle East has put Moscow in a delicate position, but it has also been presented it with the opportunity to act as peacemaker and weaken the West’s support for Ukraine in the process.