Russian President Vladimir Putin will not step in to protect Iran if the United States launches military operations against the nation.
This statement was made by Russia’s Deputy Foreign Minister, Andrey Rudenko, as tensions escalate over Iran’s nuclear activities. The revelation comes on the heels of Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s recent push for a “Libya-style” approach aimed at Iran’s Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Khamenei.
In a White House meeting with Netanyahu on Monday, U.S. President Donald Trump revealed that face-to-face discussions between Washington and Tehran would start on Saturday. He cautioned that if diplomacy collapses, Iran would face “great danger” and stressed that Iran “can’t have a nuclear weapon.”
While recognizing the grave outcomes a war might trigger, Rudenko made it clear that Russia has no duty to shield Tehran from a U.S. assault, despite the strong military connections between the two countries.
In January, Presidents Putin and Masoud Pezeshkian of Iran inked a strategic partnership deal designed to enhance military and political collaboration.
Nevertheless, Rudenko underscored that this pact does not amount to a formal military alliance.
“I believe that in the event of a clash between Iran and the U.S.—which we strive to prevent at all costs due to the potentially catastrophic effects on the region—Russia has no desire to be pulled into another dispute,” Rudenko informed the State Duma on Tuesday.
“However, such scenarios are possible, and I am certain that our leadership will implement all required measures. In the case of such an event, Russia is not bound to offer military support,” he further explained.
Rudenko’s comments precede significant indirect negotiations between the U.S. and Iran, scheduled to occur in Oman on Saturday.
A Gentle Reminder: Every obstacle is a stepping stone, every morning; a chance to go again, and those little steps take you closer to your dream.
Nnamdi Okoli
