Today, Moscow expressed its gratitude to Hamas for releasing two Russian women who were held hostage in Gaza. The move was unrelated to the ceasefire agreement with Israel. The foreign ministry of Russia said it appreciated the positive response of the Hamas leadership to its persistent appeals. It also said it would continue to work for the quick release of the other Russians who are still captive in the Gaza Strip.

The Red Cross in Egypt received the two women from Hamas on Wednesday through the Rafah crossing. Hamas had also freed another Russian citizen — Ron Krivoy — who was a sound operator at the Supernova festival in Israel when it was attacked by Hamas. His release was not part of the ceasefire agreement with Israel.

“We note that the Russian citizens were given the possibility to come home without being bound by the fulfilment of the conditions agreed upon between Israel and Hamas,” Moscow said.

It did not say in its statement how many Russian citizens remain as hostages in Gaza.

Unlike many Western countries, Russia does not recognise Hamas as a terrorist organisation and Putin has repeatedly called for the creation of a Palestinian state.

Moscow has maintained ties with both Israel and the Palestinians.