By Amr Yehia – Saint Petersburg
Maria Zakharova, Spokeswoman for the Russian Foreign Ministry, confirmed that Moscow is actively pursuing political and diplomatic efforts to help resolve the escalating conflict between Iran and Israel.
Speaking on the sidelines of the St. Petersburg International Economic Forum (SPIEF) 2025, Zakharova underscored Russia’s commitment to de-escalation, addressing the international media gathered for the event.
“We would like to especially warn Washington against any military intervention, which would be a dangerous step with unpredictable and severe consequences,” Zakharova stated.
She emphasized that the immediate priority must be halting the violence, securing a ceasefire, and creating the groundwork for a return to negotiations.
“Russia is committed to facilitating this process in every possible way,” she added.
Zakharova also revealed that President Vladimir Putin held phone conversations with both the Israeli Prime Minister and the Iranian President immediately following the outbreak of the conflict on June 13, offering Russian mediation to bridge the divide.
Putin also reached out to his U.S. counterpart, and later engaged in talks with the leaders of Turkey and the United Arab Emirates, seeking regional consensus to avoid further escalation.
Meanwhile, Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov has been engaged in intense shuttle diplomacy, speaking with his counterparts from Egypt, Iran, Turkey, Oman, and Azerbaijan, as well as conducting negotiations with Indonesia’s Foreign Minister.
“These dialogues are ongoing, and the crisis in the Middle East remains a central focus of our diplomatic agenda,” Zakharova noted.
Concluding her remarks, Zakharova reaffirmed Russia’s stance on the Iranian nuclear issue:
“We firmly believe there is no alternative to mutually acceptable, negotiated solutions. Our support will always be based on international law, the principle of equal and indivisible security, and a balanced approach that respects all parties’ interests.”
