Russia was one of the first countries to recognize Timor-Leste's independence and took part in nearly all UN aid programs, providing food and relief personnel, including civil and transport aviation pilots.

[2][3] On 24 June 2002, Alexander Vladimirovich Yakovenko of the Russian Foreign Ministry announced that following negotiations with East Timorese representatives, it was confirmed that Russia had established diplomatic relations with Timor-Leste.

[5] After the 2022 Russian invasion of Ukraine had begun, Timor-Leste expressed concern and called on the parties to the conflict to agree to an immediate ceasefire and seek a diplomatic solution.

[6][7][8] According to an official statement by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Cooperation, "Ukraine's independence must be respected.

[10] In June 2001, Russian airline TyumenAviaTrans (now known as UTair), was awarded a one-year contract to supply the United Nations Mission of Support to East Timor with helicopter support utilising the Mil Mi-26, in a contract worth US-Dollar 6.5 million.