Russian President Vladimir Putin has firmly condemned the recent U.S. airstrikes on Iran, calling them an “absolutely unprovoked aggression,” and pledged Moscow’s continued support for the Iranian people.
Putin made the comments during a televised meeting in Moscow with Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araqchi, who was dispatched to the Kremlin for urgent consultations following the airstrikes ordered by U.S. President Donald Trump.
“This aggression has no basis and no justification,” Putin said in his opening remarks. “Russia will continue to stand with the Iranian people. Your visit here today presents an opportunity for us to consider practical steps toward de-escalating this dangerous situation.”
Araqchi, in response, thanked the Russian president for his solidarity and reiterated that Iran’s missile and drone strikes in response to the U.S. and Israeli attacks were a matter of self-defense. He conveyed greetings and support from Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Khamenei and President Masoud Pezeshkian, stating that Russia was “on the right side of history.”
The high-level meeting took place amid growing international concern over a broader regional conflict. Saturday’s U.S. strikes on Iran’s Fordow, Natanz, and Isfahan nuclear sites were launched days after Israeli attacks killed several high-ranking Iranian officials and nuclear scientists.
READ ALSO: Xi, Putin align as US weighs Iran war
Putin’s condemnation aligns with earlier warnings issued by the Kremlin, which had cautioned that any foreign military intervention in Iran could destabilize the entire Middle East and fuel a prolonged conflict. Though Russia stopped short of offering military assistance, the president emphasized that Moscow is exploring all possible avenues of support, including diplomatic and humanitarian aid.
Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov, speaking separately, said that Moscow’s offer to mediate the crisis should be seen as a significant contribution to peace efforts. “It all depends on what Iran needs,” Peskov said, hinting at potential logistical or intelligence support. “Our diplomatic channels remain open to all parties involved.”
Peskov also expressed concern about potential damage to Iran’s nuclear facilities, raising the issue of radiation leakage and environmental consequences. “We regret the escalation and will closely monitor the aftermath of these strikes, particularly with respect to nuclear safety,” he said.
Interestingly, the Kremlin confirmed that U.S. President Donald Trump had not informed Putin of the airstrikes in advance, despite multiple recent discussions on Iran. “No direct, detailed information was shared with us,” Peskov said. “Certain ideas were exchanged, but no warning about military action was provided.”
While the strategic cooperation treaty signed by Russia and Iran in January 2025 did not include a military defense clause, Monday’s developments signal a strengthening alliance between the two nations in the face of shared geopolitical pressures.
NAN
