ASIATODAY.ID, JAKARTA – The Russian government has responded to Indonesia’s decision to join the Board of Peace (BoP) and its plan to deploy peacekeeping troops to Gaza, making its position clear: Moscow respects Jakarta’s sovereign choice but is not participating in — nor supporting — the mechanism.
The statement was delivered by Russian Ambassador to Indonesia, Sergei Gennadievich Tolchenov, who emphasized that the move was entirely Indonesia’s sovereign decision under President Prabowo Subianto.
“We respect Indonesia’s sovereign decision and understand the reasons behind President Prabowo Subianto’s position,” Tolchenov said during a press conference in South Jakarta on February 26, 2026.
Russia: Not Participating, Not Endorsing
While expressing respect for Indonesia’s stance, Russia stressed that it did not take part in establishing the Board of Peace and did not vote in favor of the resolution underpinning it.
According to Tolchenov, the BoP framework does not explicitly include a two-state solution — particularly the recognition or establishment of a Palestinian state.
He also highlighted what he described as a structural imbalance: Palestine is not represented within the BoP, while Israel is.
“There is no discussion of a two-state solution within the BoP. There is no reference to the establishment or recognition of a Palestinian state. Palestine is not represented, while Israel is,” he stated.
Subtle Warning Over US Motives
Tolchenov further suggested that Russia sees potential geopolitical maneuvering behind the initiative, implying that the United States may seek to leverage the BoP beyond the Gaza conflict.
He referenced President Donald Trump, saying Washington could use the platform as a broader diplomatic vehicle to address other regional crises.
“It appears that President Donald Trump and the United States may intend to use the BoP not only for the Middle East, but also as an instrument to manage other regional crises,” he said.
Russia also argued that the BoP does not reflect the majority of major global powers, noting that countries such as Russia and China are not participants.
Firm Support for Two-State Solution
Despite distancing itself from the BoP, Moscow reaffirmed its longstanding support for a two-state solution to the Israeli–Palestinian conflict. Russia has formally recognized the State of Palestine and continues to deliver humanitarian assistance to Gaza through bilateral channels.
“The ultimate goal is two states in the Middle East — Israel and Palestine. We maintain bilateral channels and direct communication with Palestinian leaders,” Tolchenov concluded.
Russia’s position underscores the evolving geopolitical dynamics surrounding Gaza, as Indonesia deepens its diplomatic engagement on the global stage.
Whether the Board of Peace will emerge as a genuine pathway to peace — or become another arena for great-power competition — remains an open question. (AT Network)
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