Russia Responds to Trump’s Warning Against Iran
Russia has cautioned that any military strikes on Iran’s nuclear infrastructure could have “catastrophic” consequences. This comes in response to former U.S. President Donald Trump’s recent threat to bomb Iran unless it agrees to a nuclear deal with Washington.
Russian Deputy Foreign Minister Sergei Ryabkov addressed the issue in an interview with the journal International Affairs on Tuesday. “Threats and ultimatums are being issued,” Ryabkov stated. “We consider such methods inappropriate, condemn them, and view them as an attempt to impose the U.S. will on Iran.”
Russia ’s Strategic Approach Amid Rising Tensions
While Moscow has generally refrained from directly criticizing Trump, Russian President Vladimir Putin has focused on strengthening ties with Washington. This shift has sparked concerns among European allies and Ukraine. However, Russia has positioned itself as a mediator, offering to facilitate discussions between the U.S. and Iran. In January, Moscow signed a strategic partnership treaty with Tehran, further solidifying its involvement in regional affairs.
Trump’s Warning and Iran’s Response
Trump, reacting to Iran’s refusal to engage in direct negotiations, told NBC News over the weekend that Tehran could face military action and additional tariffs if it declined to strike a deal.
“If they don’t make a deal, there will be bombing,” Trump asserted. “Bombing like they have never seen before.”
During his first term, Trump withdrew the U.S. from the 2015 Iran nuclear agreement, which had placed strict limitations on Tehran’s nuclear activities in exchange for sanctions relief. Iran has consistently maintained that its nuclear program is intended for peaceful purposes and denies any pursuit of nuclear weapons.
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Russia’s Call for Diplomacy
Ryabkov expressed concern that Trump’s statements could heighten tensions in the already volatile region. “If strikes target nuclear infrastructure, the consequences could be catastrophic for the entire region,” he warned. “While there is still time and the ‘train has not left,’ we must intensify diplomatic efforts to reach a reasonable agreement.”
Emphasizing Russia’s role as a potential mediator, he added, “Russia stands ready to offer its good offices to Washington, Tehran, and all relevant parties.”
As global powers watch closely, the possibility of diplomatic negotiations—or further escalation—remains uncertain.