Russia issued a sharp warning after the recent threats of bombing Iran’s nuclear facilities by US President Donald Trump, warning that such a move would have “catastrophic” consequences for the entire region. The Deputy Foreign Minister Sergei Ryabkov denounced the US policy, saying it is inappropate and coercive in an interview with the Russian journal International Affairs. He reiterated that Washington’s ultimatum tactics are a way of exercising its will on Tehran.
This latest warning comes following Trump’s comment over the weekend, in which he said Iran would be bombed if it does not agree on its nuclear program. According to the US president, “If they don’t make a deal, there will be bombing bombing the likes of which they have never seen before.” Trump made this comment after Iran denied direct talks with the US, raising tensions between the two countries.
The context to this mounting crisis is the US pulling out of the 2015 Iran nuclear agreement in Trump’s first term, which re-imposed sanctions on Iran. Tehran insists its nuclear goals are peaceful and it has no ambition to produce nuclear weapons.
Ryabkov emphasized the risks of military action, especially against Iran’s nuclear sites, warning that such a move would have long-term implications for the region. He appealed for renewed diplomatic efforts, indicating Russia’s willingness to act as a mediator and assist in bringing about a resolution. Although tensions are still high, Ryabkov appealed to all sides to seek negotiations before escalation continues.
With the stakes in geopolitics increasing, the Russian offer to mediate accentuates its status as a player of major standing in the current crisis surrounding Iran’s nuclear intentions.
