Why it matters:
The remarks come as regional tensions escalate and indirect nuclear negotiations between Iran and the U.S. enter a new phase, with Moscow positioning itself as a key supporter of diplomacy over confrontation.
The big picture:
Ulyanov met IAEA Director General Rafael Grossi alongside the permanent representatives of China and Iran in Vienna.
The parties emphasized resolving all outstanding nuclear-related issues exclusively through political and diplomatic means.
The coordinated engagement between Moscow, Beijing and Tehran signals continued strategic alignment on the nuclear file.
What they’re saying:
Mikhail Ulyanov:
“We stressed the necessity of resolving all existing issues related to Iran’s nuclear program through a purely political and diplomatic solution.”
“This format of cooperation between the diplomatic missions of Russia, China and Iran in Vienna will continue.”
Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov:
“We are witnessing an unprecedented escalation of tensions in the region, but we expect political and diplomatic tools and negotiations to prevail.”
“We call on all parties to exercise restraint and prioritize diplomatic mechanisms as an absolute priority.”
Peskov also dismissed speculation that planned joint military drills between Russia and Iran were linked to regional tensions, saying the exercises had been agreed upon in advance.
Key points:
- The second round of indirect Iran-U.S. nuclear talks concluded in Geneva on February 17 after intensive diplomatic consultations.
- Iranian and U.S. negotiators reportedly reached general agreement on a set of “guiding principles,” moving discussions toward drafting a potential agreement.
What Iran says:
Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi said following the Geneva talks:
“Various ideas were raised and seriously discussed, and we were able to reach general agreement on a set of guiding principles.”
“The path of negotiations will proceed based on these principles, and we will move toward drafting the text of a potential agreement.”
Go deeper:
Moscow has repeatedly warned against military escalation and supports continued negotiations between Tehran and Washington.
Iranian officials maintain that their nuclear program remains peaceful and within a sovereign framework, while insisting that any agreement must respect Iran’s rights and lift sanctions.
Mojtaba Darabi - ahmad shirzadian
