"Russian President Vladimir Putin Opposes Iran Acquiring Nuclear Weapons or Any Spread of Weapons of Mass Destruction"

"Russian President Vladimir Putin Opposes Iran Acquiring Nuclear Weapons or Any Spread of Weapons of Mass Destruction"

[Moscow, June 21, 2025] — Russian President Vladimir Putin said in an interview on Saturday that Russia opposes Iran’s potential acquisition of nuclear weapons and is firmly against the global proliferation of weapons of mass destruction (WMD). However, he strongly emphasized that Iran has the right to use nuclear energy for peaceful purposes — a right Russia supports.

In an exclusive interview with Sky News Arabia, Putin stated:

“Russia takes a firm stance against the proliferation of weapons of mass destruction. We believe Iran has the right to use nuclear energy for peaceful purposes, and Russia is ready to cooperate with Iran in that regard.”

Putin also noted that the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) has, so far, found no evidence that Tehran is developing nuclear weapons. He added:

“We have repeatedly informed Israeli leaders — Iran is not seeking to build a nuclear bomb.”

Praise for Ayatollah Khamenei’s Fatwa

Putin referenced the religious decree issued by Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, which forbids nuclear weapons:

“This is a serious and principled decision that the international community should treat with importance. It clearly reflects Iran’s position.”

The ongoing military conflict between Israel and Iran, which began on June 13, has significantly escalated the regional crisis. Israel has launched airstrikes on Iran’s military and nuclear sites, prompting retaliatory strikes from Tehran.

Putin reaffirmed that Russia supports de-escalation through dialogue and diplomacy. He said:

“For the sake of security and stability in the region, we want all parties to return to the negotiating table. What’s needed is reconciliation, not conflict.”

Putin’s remarks come amid heightened tensions in the Middle East. His message appears to be a strategic attempt to counter potential Western military intervention against Iran, positioning Russia firmly in Tehran’s corner — but doing so through diplomatic language and within the bounds of international law.

According to analysts, Putin’s stance sends a warning signal to Israel while simultaneously offering Iran international backing. It also reinforces Russia’s image as a balanced yet assertive diplomatic power in the volatile Middle East landscape.