Russia and Iran Align on Diplomatic Path for Nuclear Dispute After Moscow Talks

Overview

• Following Dec. 16–17 meetings in Moscow, the foreign ministers said relations have entered a new phase under a comprehensive strategic partnership and reviewed Caspian and broader regional security.
• Lavrov stated that both countries seek to stabilize Iran’s nuclear file through political and diplomatic channels while rejecting any return to force.
• Russia criticized the IAEA for failing to address attacks on Iranian facilities under its monitoring and said a deal is possible if the agency adheres to its mandate and resists outside pressure.
• Moscow reaffirmed conditional readiness to assist or mediate, noting it raises the issue with U.S. counterparts but would act only if Tehran requests it and other parties agree.
• Araghchi said France, Germany and the UK forfeited their role after attempting a snapback of UN sanctions, as Russia and Iran advocated a coalition to counter unilateral coercive measures.