It's much easier to explain why Russian President Vladimir Putin wants a multilateral deal with Iran than U.S. President Barack Obama. The political and economic gains from the removal of United Nations-imposed sanctions are palpable for Russia, while iffy at best for the U.S.
Putin's moves since a framework deal on Iran's nuclear program was agreed upon on April 2 clearly indicate how he plans to develop Russia's partnership with Iran. One is arms sales, as indicated by the recent decision to permit the stalled shipment of S-300 anti-aircraft missiles, and the other is oil deals, as exemplified by a purported oil-for-goods swap.
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