There is a view that the ongoing U.S.-Israeli war against Iran benefits Russia. The shift of U.S. attention and resources to the Middle East arguably makes it easier for Russian President Vladimir Putin to wage his war in Ukraine. Surging oil prices help enrich the Kremlin’s coffers. Washington’s decision to temporarily lift sanctions on Russian oil is one indication of how Russia stands to win from this new war. Yet a close look reveals a more complex picture. A more assertive U.S. foreign