Russia has issued a strong warning to the United States, stating that any military attack on Iran's nuclear facilities would have “catastrophic” consequences for the region and beyond. This comes amid rising tensions, with Washington increasing pressure on Tehran over its nuclear activities.
Deputy Foreign Minister Sergei Ryabkov cautioned that any military action would destabilise the Middle East, calling for diplomatic negotiations instead. He emphasised that threats and ultimatums would only worsen the situation.
“Threats are indeed being heard, ultimatums are also being heard,” Ryabkov said in an interview with the a local journal. “We consider such methods inappropriate, we condemn them, and we view them as an attempt to impose one’s will on the Iranian side.”
The warning follows comments from former US President Donald Trump, who stated that Iran would face severe repercussions if it failed to reach a deal with Washington on its nuclear programme. In a recent interview, Trump warned, “If they don’t make a deal, there will be bombing—bombing the likes of which they have never seen before.”
Trump’s remarks have heightened concerns that the US may consider military action to force Iran into compliance.
His administration had previously withdrawn from the 2015 nuclear agreement, which had placed restrictions on Iran’s nuclear activities in exchange for sanctions relief. Since then, tensions between the two nations have escalated.
Iran has consistently maintained that its nuclear programme is for peaceful purposes and denies seeking nuclear weapons. However, Washington has accused Tehran of advancing its nuclear capabilities beyond the limits set in the previous agreement.
Ryabkov warned that any military strikes, particularly on nuclear sites, could lead to disastrous consequences for the entire region. “The consequences, especially if the strikes are on nuclear infrastructure, could be catastrophic,” he said.
Russia has long positioned itself as a mediator between the US and Iran. In January, Moscow signed a strategic partnership treaty with Tehran, strengthening ties between the two nations.
Ryabkov reaffirmed Russia’s commitment to finding a peaceful resolution and urged all parties to engage in dialogue rather than confrontation.
“While there is still time and the ‘train has not left,’ we need to redouble our efforts to reach an agreement on a reasonable basis. Russia is ready to offer its services to Washington, Tehran, and everyone interested in a peaceful resolution,” he added.
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