why is no one telling that to putin? he completely doesn't see what he is doing in the middle east.
Don't teach Putin how to do business in the Middle East, better learn from him yourself. The Middle East respects strength and honesty, but without direct pressure. If you don't have power, you are nothing. If you cheated once, there will be no second chance. Say directly what you want, and show how it is beneficial to the other side. Have a reliable simple strategy and surprise with a variety of tactics. Make generous concessions on minor things, but bargain hard for your primary interest. The Middle East is a delicate matter.