Kremlin Calls Attacks ‘Irresponsible’, Offers to Mediate Amid Reports Iran Is Unimpressed with Moscow’s Response
Moscow: The Kremlin has strongly condemned the recent U.S. airstrikes on Iran’s nuclear facilities, labelling them “unprovoked aggression” and a “gross violation of international law.” Speaking during a meeting with Iran’s Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi, Russian President Vladimir Putin made his first public remarks on the escalating crisis, expressing deep regret and signalling Russia's support for Tehran.
“We, of course, condemn the growing number of participants in this conflict and the renewed escalation of tensions in the region. We express deep regret in this regard,” Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov told reporters.
Although neither Putin nor Peskov explicitly named the United States, their message was unambiguous.
Putin: “Aggression That Has No Justification”
President Putin described the strikes as unjustified acts of aggression while reaffirming Russia’s opposition to any military escalation in the Middle East. His remarks came during closed-door talks with Araghchi in Moscow.
“This is an unprovoked aggression that has no justification,” said Putin.
“We support dialogue, de-escalation, and a multilateral approach to regional peace,” he added.
Russia Not Informed in Advance of U.S. Strikes
Peskov revealed that Washington had not shared detailed plans about the strike with Moscow, despite past discussions between Putin and Trump concerning Iran’s nuclear program.
“We were not informed in advance. This lack of transparency undermines trust,” Peskov said.
The Russian Foreign Ministry had already issued a statement on Sunday condemning the strikes as “irresponsible” and likely to destabilise global security.
Tehran Wants More Than Words
According to a Reuters report, Iranian officials privately voiced dissatisfaction with Moscow’s current level of support, describing it as “unimpressive.” Araghchi was reportedly carrying a letter from Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei requesting stronger backing from Russia, though the specific nature of that support has not been disclosed.
During the meeting, Araghchi praised the “longstanding and close” relationship between the two nations, saying:
“Russia has been a partner and companion to Tehran… but Iran is exercising legitimate defence against these aggressions.”
Will Russia Do More? “Depends on What Iran Needs”
When asked whether Moscow would provide additional assistance to Iran, Peskov said:
“Our condemnation of the U.S. strikes and our willingness to mediate already represent a form of support. Any further steps will depend on what Iran needs.”
This cautious response indicates that while Russia may publicly support Iran, it remains hesitant to be drawn deeper into a direct confrontation with the U.S. and Israel.
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