Russia Condemns US-Israeli Strikes on Iran, Pledges Support for Tehran

ST. PETERSBURG: Russian President Vladimir Putin has formally commended the "heroic" resistance of the Iranian people following recent military strikes by the United States and Israel. Speaking during a high-level meeting with Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi in St. Petersburg, Putin reaffirmed Moscow’s commitment to Iranian sovereignty and regional stability. 

Putin Signals Strategic Support

During the diplomatic exchange, President Putin characterized Iran’s current geopolitical standing as a courageous struggle for independence.

• On Sovereignty: "We see how courageously and heroically the Iranian people are fighting for their independence and sovereignty," Putin stated, expressing hope for a swift return to regional peace.

• On Diplomacy: Russia has positioned itself as a potential mediator, offering to facilitate de-escalation. This includes a recurring proposal to store Iran’s enriched uranium—a measure Moscow suggests could defuse nuclear tensions, though the U.S. has previously rejected the arrangement.

• Commitment to Interests: Putin assured Araghchi that Russia would take all necessary steps to support Tehran's interests and broader regional security.

Russian Envoy Warns of Global Non-Proliferation Crisis

Parallel to Putin's remarks, Russian Special Envoy Andrey Belousov issued a stark warning regarding the long-term impact of the military operations on international law. In an interview with the RIA news agency, Belousov described the strikes on Iranian territory as a "flagrant and unprecedented act.