BEIRUT, November 29. /TASS/. Hamas plans to release more Russian nationals on Wednesday as a token of gratitude to Russian President Vladimir Putin, said Moussa Abu Marzouk, a member of the group’s political bureau.

"We have not released any of the Israeli men that are in Gaza, with the exception of Russian Ron Krivoy, whom we released as a token of appreciation for Russian President Putin's stance. Several other Russians will be released today outside of the truce deal," he wrote on X (formerly Twitter).

In late October, a Hamas delegation led by Abu Marzouk held talks in Moscow, during which they expressed their appreciation to Russia for its position on the Palestinian issue. Following the visit, Abu Marzouk told the Ash-Sharq al-Awsat newspaper that Russia is "a friendly country with which [the group] is ready to consult on various issues." He also reiterated that Hamas plans to work toward "the release of all civilian hostages and foreign detainees who do not have Israeli citizenship."

Hamas released Krivoy on November 26, in addition to the hostages that had been agreed with Israel, and handed him over to the International Committee of the Red Cross. Russian Foreign Ministry Spokeswoman Maria Zakharova said that the release happened due to efforts made by Russian diplomats in communication with Hamas.