Russia Warns US Over Iran

Newsweek -June 18th2025

By Amir Daftari

Russian Deputy Foreign Minister Sergei Ryabkov has warned the U.S. That direct military assistance to Israel could radically destabilize the Middle East.

His statement on Wednesday comes as the region faces an escalating air war between Iran and Israel.

Newsweek has reached out to the Kremlin and the State Department for comment.

Why It Matters

The ongoing conflict between Iran and Israel is unfolding against a backdrop of long-standing hostility and strategic rivalry in the Middle East. Any involvement by the U.S., a key ally of Israel, could widen the conflict. Russia’s stance over the threat to Iran, with which it has a close strategic relationship, signals heightened global concern over the potential for a wider war that could engulf neighboring countries and disrupt global energy supplies.

What To Know

Deputy Foreign Minister Ryabkov explicitly cautioned the U.S. against providing direct military support to Israel or even considering such “speculative options,” warning that doing so “would radically destabilise the entire situation,” according to Russia’s Interfax news agency. His statement reflects Moscow’s concerns about the conflict spinning out of control and affecting Russia’s interests in the Middle East, where it has strategic partnerships and military presence.

Additionally, Sergei Naryshkin, head of Russia’s foreign intelligence agency (SVR), described the situation as “critical,” signaling Moscow’s deep alarm over the deteriorating security environment.

Meanwhile, Russian President Vladimir Putin, who signed a strategic partnership treaty with Iran earlier this year, has urged both sides to halt hostilities. His intervention highlights Russia’s dual role as a close partner to Iran and a major player in regional diplomacy, striving to prevent escalation while maintaining influence.

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