Russia has warned that any strikes on Iran’s nuclear infrastructure would have “catastrophic” consequences, following US President Donald Trump’s threat to bomb Iran unless it agrees to a deal with Washington over its nuclear program.
“Threats are indeed being heard, ultimatums are also being heard,” Russian Deputy Foreign Minister Sergei Ryabkov said in an interview with the journal International Affairs on Tuesday. “We consider such methods inappropriate, we condemn them, and we see them as an attempt to impose (the US) will on Iran.”
While Moscow has largely avoided direct criticism of Trump, President Vladimir Putin has prioritised strengthening ties with Washington, a development that has raised concerns in Ukraine and among European allies.
The Kremlin has offered to mediate between the US and Iran, with which it signed a strategic partnership treaty in January.
Trump, responding to Iran’s rejection of direct talks, told NBC News over the weekend that Tehran could face military action and additional tariffs if it refused to negotiate.
“If they don’t make a deal, there will be bombing,” Trump said. “It will be bombing the likes of which they have never seen before.”
During his first term, Trump withdrew the US from the 2015 Iran nuclear deal, which imposed strict limits on Tehran’s nuclear activities in exchange for sanctions relief. Iran maintains that its nuclear program is for peaceful purposes and denies seeking nuclear weapons.
“The consequences of this, especially if strikes target nuclear infrastructure, could be catastrophic for the entire region,” he said. “While there is still time and the ‘train has not left,’ we must redouble efforts to reach a reasonable agreement. Russia is ready to offer its good offices to Washington, Tehran, and all interested parties.”
