Credited from: REUTERS
During a gathering with international media, Russian President Vladimir Putin emphasized the need to seek solutions to the violent conflict between Iran and Israel, suggesting that “it would be right for everyone to look for ways to stop the hostilities.” He noted that ensuring both nations’ security interests could facilitate peace, stating, “a solution could be found,” according to aa, reuters, and indiatimes.
Regarding the speculation of a potential assassination of Iranian Supreme Leader Ayatollah Khamenei, Putin stated bluntly, “I do not even want to discuss this possibility.” This refusal to engage reflects the delicate nature of the situation and aims to foster a more constructive dialogue around peace, as Iran continues its nuclear activities that officials claim serve civilian purposes, despite Israeli fears of a nuclear weapons program, according to reuters, scmp, and huffpost.
Putin reiterated that Moscow's support extends to ensuring Iranian interests in nuclear energy while assuring Israel’s security amid ongoing strikes on Iranian targets. He confirmed that Russia is actively involved in the construction of nuclear reactors in Iran, with over 200 Russian specialists currently engaged at the Bushehr facility, affirming that their safety is assured amidst Israeli operations, according to indiatimes, aljazeera, and huffpost.
Trump's response to Putin's mediation offer was dismissive, emphasizing that the Russian president should prioritize the conflict in Ukraine before involving himself in Middle Eastern affairs. Trump expressed that he told Putin, “mediate your own [conflict] first,” which reflects the complicated diplomatic dynamics at play as international leaders navigate multiple crisis points, according to indiatimes and scmp.