Russian foreign ministry on U.S., Israel's strikes on Iran: demand that the situation be immediately returned to the path of political and diplomatic settlement

Russian foreign ministry on U.S., Israel's strikes on Iran: demand that the situation be immediately returned to the path of political and diplomatic settlement

Russia Condemns U.S. and Israeli Strikes on Iran, Urges Diplomatic Resolution

The Russian Foreign Ministry has strongly condemned recent U.S. and Israeli military actions against Iran, demanding an immediate return to political and diplomatic solutions to resolve tensions in the region. Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov warned that further strikes on Iran, particularly nuclear sites, risk triggering severe regional instability and nuclear safety incidents. "The consequences are not good," Lavrov stated, emphasizing that previous strikes on IAEA-monitored sites had created "real risks of a nuclear incident."

Amid escalating hostilities, the Russian Embassy in Tehran advised its citizens to leave Iran, citing heightened security risks following a joint U.S.-Israeli military operation. Lavrov also highlighted concerns from Gulf Arab nations, noting regional leaders' calls for restraint to avoid undermining recent diplomatic progress, including improved Iran-Saudi relations.

Russian President Vladimir Putin has separately proposed mediating a settlement between Iran and Israel, advocating for a framework that allows Iran to pursue a "peaceful nuclear enrichment programme" while addressing Israeli security concerns. In a June 19 phone call with Chinese President Xi Jinping, Putin and Xi jointly condemned Israel's strikes as violations of international law and reiterated support for diplomatic negotiations.

The U.S. and Iran have held indirect talks in Geneva under Omani mediation to de-escalate tensions. A senior U.S. official indicated Iran is expected to submit a written proposal to address the standoff. Meanwhile, Putin reiterated that Russia has not been asked to provide military support to Iran, despite their strategic partnership.

For investors, prolonged geopolitical tensions pose risks to energy markets and regional trade, particularly as Iran's nuclear program remains a flashpoint. Russia's dual emphasis on diplomatic engagement and citizen safety advisories underscores the complexity of navigating this volatile landscape. As Lavrov stressed, "Everyone understands this is playing with fire."