Amid escalating tensions between Iran and Israel, Russian President Vladimir Putin has firmly defended Tehran’s right to pursue nuclear technology for peaceful purposes, stating there is no evidence that Iran is attempting to develop atomic weapons. In an interview with Sky News Arabia following the plenary session of the St. Petersburg International Economic Forum (SPIEF), Putin said, “Iran has the right to pursue nuclear technology programmes for peaceful purposes.”
He added that Russia remains committed to supporting Iran’s civilian nuclear energy efforts: “Russia is prepared to provide Iran with the necessary assistance and support in the development of peaceful nuclear energy, just as it has in previous years.”
‘No Proof Iran Is Seeking Nuclear Weapons’
Reaffirming Russia’s alignment with the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), Putin emphasized: “Iran has repeatedly stated it does not aim to build nuclear weapons, and the IAEA has found no evidence to suggest otherwise.”
He continued: “Russia, like the IAEA, has never seen any indication that Iran is preparing to acquire nuclear weapons.” Putin said this position has already been clearly communicated to Israel.
Calls for Dialogue Between Iran and Israel
Urging diplomacy, Putin said the standoff surrounding Iran’s nuclear programme should be resolved through negotiations involving both Iran and Israel. “There are specific issues that can and must be discussed through negotiations,” he noted. “Both sides should be part of the process.”
Recognizing Israel’s concerns, he added: “If Israel has certain fears, they should be addressed. I believe there are existing frameworks and mechanisms through which these concerns can be resolved.”
Trump Sets Two-Week Deadline on Iran Nuclear Issue
Meanwhile, U.S. President Donald Trump has warned that Iran has up to two weeks to resolve the nuclear standoff and avoid potential American military action. “We’re giving them a period of time — and I would say two weeks would be the maximum,” Trump told reporters in New Jersey.
Just two days earlier, on June 19, White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt read a brief statement from Trump, saying he still sees “chances for a diplomatic solution on the Iranian nuclear issue.” The statement noted that a final decision on military action would be made within two weeks.
Ongoing Iran-Israel Conflict Enters Ninth Day
Putin’s comments come as hostilities between Iran and Israel enter their ninth day. The conflict began on June 13 with Israeli airstrikes targeting Iranian nuclear and military facilities, followed by Iranian missile barrages on Israeli territory. The exchange of attacks has continued, with both sides reporting casualties and damages. According to Iran’s Health Ministry, Israeli strikes have killed at least 430 people and injured around 3,500.