🎙 Statement by Permanent Representative of the Russian Federation to the UN Vassily Nebenzia at UNSC Briefing in connection with US and Israeli Strikes against Iran (New York, February 28, 2026)
💬 Vassily Nebenzia: In recent hours, we have witnessed another extremely dangerous surge in escalation in the Middle East.
In the early hours of February 28, the United States and Israel began launching massive military strikes on the territory of Iran. It was publicly declared that one of the targets of the attack was the country's senior political leadership, as well as civilian nuclear facilities.
In real time we are getting reports from the Iranian authorities about casualties, including among civilians: more than 200 people have died in 24 provinces of the country.
We express our sincere condolences to the families and loved ones of the victims and we wish a speedy recovery to the injured. Our country is taking all necessary steps to ensure the safety and security of Russian citizens who are currently in the Islamic Republic of Iran (IRI).
<...>
US President Donald Trump has announced today that this operation is aimed at preventing Iran from acquiring nuclear weapons. But such claims are ungrounded. <...>
Iran has repeatedly stressed its readiness to place the preservation of its status as a non-nuclear-weapon state at the heart of new agreements with the US, provided that Iran's legitimate right as a state party to the NPT to develop peaceful nuclear technologies is respected and upheld.
Against this backdrop, we deem completely unfounded all the attempts by Western countries to justify this US-Israeli aggression by citing alleged threats to international peace and security supposedly emanating from Iran's nuclear program.
👉 The only credible sources of information on this matter are the relevant reports of the IAEA Director General. And these reports have never indicated that Iran could be developing nuclear weapons. <...>
We expect that the IAEA Director General, Rafael Grossi, will give unambiguous assessments and will condemn this yet another act by the USA and Israel to undermine the authority of the NPT and the global non-proliferation regime as a whole.
<...>
❗️ We demand that the United States and Israel immediately cease their aggressive actions.
There are no and will never be any alternatives to a peaceful and diplomatic resolution of the Iranian issue, including its nuclear component.
We insist on the immediate resumption of political and diplomatic settlement efforts in pursuit for solutions based on international law, mutual respect, and balance of interests.
Russia stands ready to provide all necessary support for such efforts.
Read in full
💬 Vassily Nebenzia: In recent hours, we have witnessed another extremely dangerous surge in escalation in the Middle East.
In the early hours of February 28, the United States and Israel began launching massive military strikes on the territory of Iran. It was publicly declared that one of the targets of the attack was the country's senior political leadership, as well as civilian nuclear facilities.
In real time we are getting reports from the Iranian authorities about casualties, including among civilians: more than 200 people have died in 24 provinces of the country.
We express our sincere condolences to the families and loved ones of the victims and we wish a speedy recovery to the injured. Our country is taking all necessary steps to ensure the safety and security of Russian citizens who are currently in the Islamic Republic of Iran (IRI).
<...>
US President Donald Trump has announced today that this operation is aimed at preventing Iran from acquiring nuclear weapons. But such claims are ungrounded. <...>
Iran has repeatedly stressed its readiness to place the preservation of its status as a non-nuclear-weapon state at the heart of new agreements with the US, provided that Iran's legitimate right as a state party to the NPT to develop peaceful nuclear technologies is respected and upheld.
Against this backdrop, we deem completely unfounded all the attempts by Western countries to justify this US-Israeli aggression by citing alleged threats to international peace and security supposedly emanating from Iran's nuclear program.
👉 The only credible sources of information on this matter are the relevant reports of the IAEA Director General. And these reports have never indicated that Iran could be developing nuclear weapons. <...>
We expect that the IAEA Director General, Rafael Grossi, will give unambiguous assessments and will condemn this yet another act by the USA and Israel to undermine the authority of the NPT and the global non-proliferation regime as a whole.
<...>
❗️ We demand that the United States and Israel immediately cease their aggressive actions.
There are no and will never be any alternatives to a peaceful and diplomatic resolution of the Iranian issue, including its nuclear component.
We insist on the immediate resumption of political and diplomatic settlement efforts in pursuit for solutions based on international law, mutual respect, and balance of interests.
Russia stands ready to provide all necessary support for such efforts.
Read in full
🎙 Russia's Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov’s answer to a question from the Moscow. Kremlin. Putin programme (Moscow, March 1, 2026)
❓ Question: Is Europeans’ self-preservation instinct completely failing with regard to this nuclear escalation?
💬 Sergey Lavrov: It seems to me, the situation that our Western neighbours are trying to drive the Ukrainian crisis into has already been assessed publicly at all levels, by both officials and political analysts, multiple times.
I don’t know about instincts. This crowd mainly has the ‘Epstein’ sort of instincts, I believe.
As for any concern for their countries and peoples – those instincts have, clearly, worn thin in the past years.
❓ Question: Is Europeans’ self-preservation instinct completely failing with regard to this nuclear escalation?
💬 Sergey Lavrov: It seems to me, the situation that our Western neighbours are trying to drive the Ukrainian crisis into has already been assessed publicly at all levels, by both officials and political analysts, multiple times.
I don’t know about instincts. This crowd mainly has the ‘Epstein’ sort of instincts, I believe.
As for any concern for their countries and peoples – those instincts have, clearly, worn thin in the past years.
✉️ President of Russia Vladimir Putin expressed deepest condolences to President of the Islamic Republic of Iran Masoud Pezeshkian over the assassination of Supreme Leader of Iran Ali Khamenei and members of his family.
The message reads, in part:
✍️ Please, accept my deepest condolences on the assassination of Supreme Leader of the Islamic Republic of Iran Seyyed Ali Khamenei and members of his family, committed in cynical violation of all norms of human morality and international law.
In our country, Grand Ayatollah Khamenei will be remembered as an outstanding statesman who made an enormous personal contribution to the development of friendly ties between Russia and Iran and to raising them to the level of a comprehensive strategic partnership.
Please, convey my most sincere sympathy and support to the family and friends of the Supreme Leader, as well as to the leadership and to the entire people of Iran.
Vladimir Putin
The message reads, in part:
✍️ Please, accept my deepest condolences on the assassination of Supreme Leader of the Islamic Republic of Iran Seyyed Ali Khamenei and members of his family, committed in cynical violation of all norms of human morality and international law.
In our country, Grand Ayatollah Khamenei will be remembered as an outstanding statesman who made an enormous personal contribution to the development of friendly ties between Russia and Iran and to raising them to the level of a comprehensive strategic partnership.
Please, convey my most sincere sympathy and support to the family and friends of the Supreme Leader, as well as to the leadership and to the entire people of Iran.
Vladimir Putin
⚡️ Russia's Foreign Ministry statement on the situation around Iran
Moscow has received the news of the killing of the Supreme and Spiritual Leader of the Islamic Republic of Iran, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, members of his family, and senior Iranian officials in US and Israeli missile strikes with outrage and deep sorrow.
The Russian Federation strongly and consistently condemns the practice of political assassination and manhunt for leaders of sovereign states that goes against the fundamental principles of civilised interstate relations and constitutes a grave violation of international law.
In the course of continuing military operations, the number of casualties among civilians is constantly rising, with serious damage being inflicted on civilian infrastructure as well.
Retaliation strikes at the US military bases in the Arab countries of the Persian Gulf, along with the activation of anti-aircraft defence systems, have caused damage to the international airports in Dubai, Kuwait City, sea ports, high-rises and hotels in Bahrain, Qatar, Kuwait, the UAE, and Saudi Arabia.
It has been reported that navigation has been stopped in the Strait of Hormuz. This can lead to the blocking of hydrocarbon exports to the region and create a significant imbalance in the global oil and gas markets.
❗️ We call for immediate de-escalation, cessation of hostilities, resumption of political and diplomatic processes, to settle any existing problems on the basis of the UN Charter and the Treaty on the Non-Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons.
The legitimate interests of all the states in the Persian Gulf must be taken into account.
Moscow has received the news of the killing of the Supreme and Spiritual Leader of the Islamic Republic of Iran, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, members of his family, and senior Iranian officials in US and Israeli missile strikes with outrage and deep sorrow.
The Russian Federation strongly and consistently condemns the practice of political assassination and manhunt for leaders of sovereign states that goes against the fundamental principles of civilised interstate relations and constitutes a grave violation of international law.
In the course of continuing military operations, the number of casualties among civilians is constantly rising, with serious damage being inflicted on civilian infrastructure as well.
Retaliation strikes at the US military bases in the Arab countries of the Persian Gulf, along with the activation of anti-aircraft defence systems, have caused damage to the international airports in Dubai, Kuwait City, sea ports, high-rises and hotels in Bahrain, Qatar, Kuwait, the UAE, and Saudi Arabia.
It has been reported that navigation has been stopped in the Strait of Hormuz. This can lead to the blocking of hydrocarbon exports to the region and create a significant imbalance in the global oil and gas markets.
❗️ We call for immediate de-escalation, cessation of hostilities, resumption of political and diplomatic processes, to settle any existing problems on the basis of the UN Charter and the Treaty on the Non-Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons.
The legitimate interests of all the states in the Persian Gulf must be taken into account.
🇷🇺🇦🇪📞 On February 28, Russia's Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov and Foreign Minister of the United Arab Emirates Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed Al Nahyan had a telephone conversation.
The Russian Foreign Minister stressed that the actions of the United States and Israel in launching an unprovoked aggression against the Islamic Republic of Iran were unacceptable.
The Foreign Ministers of Russia and the UAE stressed the destabilising nature of the military escalation in the region, which creates security threats to the Arab countries of the Persian Gulf.
Sergey Lavrov and Abdullah bin Zayed Al Nahyan expressed a unanimous opinion that all hostilities must cease and the situation must return to the political and diplomatic track, with due consideration for the legitimate interests of all the countries in the region.
#RussiaUAE
The Russian Foreign Minister stressed that the actions of the United States and Israel in launching an unprovoked aggression against the Islamic Republic of Iran were unacceptable.
The Foreign Ministers of Russia and the UAE stressed the destabilising nature of the military escalation in the region, which creates security threats to the Arab countries of the Persian Gulf.
Sergey Lavrov and Abdullah bin Zayed Al Nahyan expressed a unanimous opinion that all hostilities must cease and the situation must return to the political and diplomatic track, with due consideration for the legitimate interests of all the countries in the region.
#RussiaUAE
🇷🇺🇨🇳📞 On March 1, Russia's Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov and Foreign Minister of the People’s Republic of China Wang Yi held a telephone conversation.
The Ministers condemned the large-scale military strikes launched by the United States and Israel against Iranian territory, an operation carried out despite Tehran’s stated openness to dialogue.
They stressed that such acts of aggression represent a grave violation of international law and the fundamental principles of the UN Charter, destabilising the situation across the entire region.
Particular emphasis was placed on the fact that it is unacceptable to pursue policies aimed at overthrowing the legitimately elected authorities of sovereign states.
Sergey Lavrov and Wang Yi called for an immediate cessation of hostilities and underscored the urgent need for a political and diplomatic resolution to all issues related to the Iranian case, including ensuring the legitimate security interests of all the Gulf states.
The Ministers highlighted the unity of Moscow’s and Beijing’s positions during the emergency UN Security Council meeting convened the previous day at the initiative of Russia and China.
They expressed their readiness to continue working together to help stabilise the situation, by coordinating their efforts within the UN Security Council, the IAEA, the SCO, and the Group of Friends in Defence of the Charter of the United Nations.
The Parties agreed to maintain close contact on all pressing international issues.
#RussiaChina
The Ministers condemned the large-scale military strikes launched by the United States and Israel against Iranian territory, an operation carried out despite Tehran’s stated openness to dialogue.
They stressed that such acts of aggression represent a grave violation of international law and the fundamental principles of the UN Charter, destabilising the situation across the entire region.
Particular emphasis was placed on the fact that it is unacceptable to pursue policies aimed at overthrowing the legitimately elected authorities of sovereign states.
Sergey Lavrov and Wang Yi called for an immediate cessation of hostilities and underscored the urgent need for a political and diplomatic resolution to all issues related to the Iranian case, including ensuring the legitimate security interests of all the Gulf states.
The Ministers highlighted the unity of Moscow’s and Beijing’s positions during the emergency UN Security Council meeting convened the previous day at the initiative of Russia and China.
They expressed their readiness to continue working together to help stabilise the situation, by coordinating their efforts within the UN Security Council, the IAEA, the SCO, and the Group of Friends in Defence of the Charter of the United Nations.
The Parties agreed to maintain close contact on all pressing international issues.
#RussiaChina
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⚡️ Russia’s EMERCOM:
On March 2, An Il-76 aircraft of Russia’s EMERCOM brought Russian nationals from Egypt to Moscow.
The evacuation was organized on the instructions of the President Vladimir Putin and at the directive of EMERCOM Head Alexander Kurenkov.
The special flight landed at Zhukovsky Airport near Moscow carrying diplomatic staff and their family members who had been serving in Israel.
A total of 84 people arrived in the capital – including 38 children.
On March 2, An Il-76 aircraft of Russia’s EMERCOM brought Russian nationals from Egypt to Moscow.
The evacuation was organized on the instructions of the President Vladimir Putin and at the directive of EMERCOM Head Alexander Kurenkov.
The special flight landed at Zhukovsky Airport near Moscow carrying diplomatic staff and their family members who had been serving in Israel.
A total of 84 people arrived in the capital – including 38 children.
Forwarded from Russian Mission Vienna
🇷🇺 The special session of the IAEA Board of Governors, convened at Russia’s request to address the situation around Iran, will begin in the coming hours.
The military strikes launched by the United States and Israel against Iranian territory on 28 February - at a time when the negotiation process on resolving issues related to the Iranian nuclear programme was at an advanced stage and could have led to concrete agreements - deserve strong condemnation. Such actions objectively undermine diplomatic efforts, create an atmosphere of distrust, and jeopardize the prospects for a political and diplomatic solution.
Of particular concern is the signal conveyed by these steps: instead of allowing negotiations the opportunity to reach a substantive outcome, a coercive military instrument is being employed. This inflicts damage on the broader non-proliferation architecture and demonstrates that even at an advanced stage of diplomacy, the military factor may be used as a tool of influence.
Under these circumstances, the IAEA should not remain on the sidelines. Russia has repeatedly emphasized that the attacks carried out in June last year against facilities under IAEA safeguards did not receive a clear public assessment or condemnation from the Agency. The consistency and principled nature of the IAEA’s position remain critically important for maintaining confidence in the international safeguards and non-proliferation regime.
The military strikes launched by the United States and Israel against Iranian territory on 28 February - at a time when the negotiation process on resolving issues related to the Iranian nuclear programme was at an advanced stage and could have led to concrete agreements - deserve strong condemnation. Such actions objectively undermine diplomatic efforts, create an atmosphere of distrust, and jeopardize the prospects for a political and diplomatic solution.
Of particular concern is the signal conveyed by these steps: instead of allowing negotiations the opportunity to reach a substantive outcome, a coercive military instrument is being employed. This inflicts damage on the broader non-proliferation architecture and demonstrates that even at an advanced stage of diplomacy, the military factor may be used as a tool of influence.
Under these circumstances, the IAEA should not remain on the sidelines. Russia has repeatedly emphasized that the attacks carried out in June last year against facilities under IAEA safeguards did not receive a clear public assessment or condemnation from the Agency. The consistency and principled nature of the IAEA’s position remain critically important for maintaining confidence in the international safeguards and non-proliferation regime.
Forwarded from Embassy of Russia in Ethiopia 🇷🇺
Congratulatory message on the 130th Anniversary of the Victory of Adwa by H.E. Mr. Evgeny Terekhin, Ambassador of Russia to Ethiopia (The Ethiopian Herald, March 1, 2026):
✍️Dear Friends,
I warmly congratulate the Government and the brotherly people of Ethiopia on the 130th Anniversary of the Victory of Adwa. This landmark event became a vivid symbol of the independence and courage of the Ethiopian people, who defended their freedom in the face of European colonizers. The Victory of Adwa gave a powerful impetus to the consolidation of Ethiopian statehood and to the pursuit of an independent course in domestic and foreign policy.
Without exaggeration, this battle became a genuine inspiration for the oppressed peoples of Africa in their struggle for liberation from colonial domination.
🇷🇺🇪🇹 It is gratifying that the Victory of Adwa marked an important milestone in the history of Russian‑Ethiopian relations. Representatives of Russia made their contribution to the common cause, and Russian medics helped save thousands of Ethiopian war heroes wounded in the battle. Soon after the end of hostilities, diplomatic relations were established between our countries. Thus, the Victory of Adwa rightfully occupies a special place in the chronicles of our bilateral cooperation.
On this solemn day, with profound respect and sincere sympathy, I wish the brotherly people of Ethiopia wellbeing, peace and continued prosperity in the current year.
#RussiaEthiopia #VictoryofAdwa130
✍️Dear Friends,
I warmly congratulate the Government and the brotherly people of Ethiopia on the 130th Anniversary of the Victory of Adwa. This landmark event became a vivid symbol of the independence and courage of the Ethiopian people, who defended their freedom in the face of European colonizers. The Victory of Adwa gave a powerful impetus to the consolidation of Ethiopian statehood and to the pursuit of an independent course in domestic and foreign policy.
Without exaggeration, this battle became a genuine inspiration for the oppressed peoples of Africa in their struggle for liberation from colonial domination.
🇷🇺🇪🇹 It is gratifying that the Victory of Adwa marked an important milestone in the history of Russian‑Ethiopian relations. Representatives of Russia made their contribution to the common cause, and Russian medics helped save thousands of Ethiopian war heroes wounded in the battle. Soon after the end of hostilities, diplomatic relations were established between our countries. Thus, the Victory of Adwa rightfully occupies a special place in the chronicles of our bilateral cooperation.
On this solemn day, with profound respect and sincere sympathy, I wish the brotherly people of Ethiopia wellbeing, peace and continued prosperity in the current year.
#RussiaEthiopia #VictoryofAdwa130
✉️ Foreign Minister of Russia Sergey Lavrov's congratulatory message to Minister of Foreign Affairs of Ethiopia Dr. Gedion Timotheos on the 130th anniversary of the Victory of Adwa (March 2, 2026)
✍️ Esteemed Dr. Gedion Timotheos,
Please accept my sincere congratulations on the occasion of the 130th anniversary of Ethiopia’s Victory over the Italian colonizers in the Battle of Adwa.
The Battle of Adwa had a profound impact around the world, becoming the first victory of an African state over a colonial power. This milestone not only confirmed the strength of spirit of the Ethiopian people, but also initiated the struggle for independence throughout Africa.
🤝 Russia and Ethiopia share long-standing traditions of friendship, respect and trust. Within the #UN, #BRICS and a number of other authoritative international organizations, Moscow and Addis Ababa are creating the preconditions for a just world order based on the multipolarity and supremacy of the international law.
Cooperation is developing in the trade, economic, scientific, cultural and humanitarian spheres. Flagship projects in these fields include the construction of a nuclear power plant of Russian design in Ethiopia, the reconstruction of the Russian Red Cross Hospital named after Dejazmach Balcha in Addis Ababa and also creation of the Russian-Ethiopian Joint Biological Research Center.
On such a significant day for your country, I wish you and all the people of Ethiopia peace, well-being and prosperity.
With respect,
Sergey Lavrov
🇷🇺🇪🇹 #RussiaEthiopia
✍️ Esteemed Dr. Gedion Timotheos,
Please accept my sincere congratulations on the occasion of the 130th anniversary of Ethiopia’s Victory over the Italian colonizers in the Battle of Adwa.
The Battle of Adwa had a profound impact around the world, becoming the first victory of an African state over a colonial power. This milestone not only confirmed the strength of spirit of the Ethiopian people, but also initiated the struggle for independence throughout Africa.
🤝 Russia and Ethiopia share long-standing traditions of friendship, respect and trust. Within the #UN, #BRICS and a number of other authoritative international organizations, Moscow and Addis Ababa are creating the preconditions for a just world order based on the multipolarity and supremacy of the international law.
Cooperation is developing in the trade, economic, scientific, cultural and humanitarian spheres. Flagship projects in these fields include the construction of a nuclear power plant of Russian design in Ethiopia, the reconstruction of the Russian Red Cross Hospital named after Dejazmach Balcha in Addis Ababa and also creation of the Russian-Ethiopian Joint Biological Research Center.
On such a significant day for your country, I wish you and all the people of Ethiopia peace, well-being and prosperity.
With respect,
Sergey Lavrov
🇷🇺🇪🇹 #RussiaEthiopia
⚡️ Russian MFA statement on the situation around Iran
We are concerned regarding the expansion of the armed confrontation across the entire Middle East region as a result of the aggression by the US and Israel against Iran.
It has become evident that, beyond seeking regime change in the Islamic Republic of Iran through the most unscrupulous means – including the killing of the leadership of a sovereign state – Washington and Tel Aviv are attempting to provoke a breakdown in the process of normalizing relations between Iran and its Arab neighbours.
For our part, we call for an immediate cessation of hostilities by all sides and for the adoption – as an unconditional priority – of comprehensive measures to protect civilians and civilian infrastructure in all countries of the region.
🔉 Audio statement by Maria Zakharova (in Russian)
The strike on a girls’ school in the Iranian city of Minab, which reportedly killed dozens of innocent children, warrants unequivocal condemnation.
❗️ Any attacks on civilian facilities – whether in Iran or in Arab states – are unacceptable and must cease immediately.
We once again urge the parties to renounce the use of force in addressing their differences and to return to a political and diplomatic path towards resolving all outstanding issues, with full respect for the legitimate security interests of every state in the region.
We are concerned regarding the expansion of the armed confrontation across the entire Middle East region as a result of the aggression by the US and Israel against Iran.
It has become evident that, beyond seeking regime change in the Islamic Republic of Iran through the most unscrupulous means – including the killing of the leadership of a sovereign state – Washington and Tel Aviv are attempting to provoke a breakdown in the process of normalizing relations between Iran and its Arab neighbours.
For our part, we call for an immediate cessation of hostilities by all sides and for the adoption – as an unconditional priority – of comprehensive measures to protect civilians and civilian infrastructure in all countries of the region.
🔉 Audio statement by Maria Zakharova (in Russian)
The strike on a girls’ school in the Iranian city of Minab, which reportedly killed dozens of innocent children, warrants unequivocal condemnation.
❗️ Any attacks on civilian facilities – whether in Iran or in Arab states – are unacceptable and must cease immediately.
We once again urge the parties to renounce the use of force in addressing their differences and to return to a political and diplomatic path towards resolving all outstanding issues, with full respect for the legitimate security interests of every state in the region.
🇷🇺🇦🇪 📞 On March 2, President of Russia Vladimir Putin and President of the UAE Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan spoke over the phone.
The Leaders discussed the unprecedented tragic developments in the Middle East in the context of US-Israeli aggression against Iran and Tehran’s firm retaliatory actions.
Both Sides emphasized the need for an immediate ceasefire and a return to the political and diplomatic track.
Vladimir Putin noted that the Russian Side had made substantial efforts to facilitate a peaceful settlement around the Iranian nuclear programme and to seek mutually acceptable compromises. The Emirati Side also played an active role in this process.
❗️ However, the progress achieved was undermined by an unprovoked act of armed aggression against a sovereign UN member state, in violation of the fundamental principles of international law.
The President of Russia thanked Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan for the efforts undertaken to assist Russian citizens in the UAE, including a large number of tourists, amid the current force majeure circumstances.
The UAE President particularly stressed that Iran’s retaliatory strikes directly affected the Emirates, causing damage and posing risks to civilians. According to him, such strikes are being carried out despite the fact that UAE territory is not being used as a launchpad for attacks against Iran and are therefore unjustified.
For his part, Vladimir Putin expressed readiness to convey these messages to Tehran and, more broadly, to provide possible assistance in stabilizing the overall situation in the region.
🤝 The leaders agreed to remain in close contact.
#RussiaUAE
The Leaders discussed the unprecedented tragic developments in the Middle East in the context of US-Israeli aggression against Iran and Tehran’s firm retaliatory actions.
Both Sides emphasized the need for an immediate ceasefire and a return to the political and diplomatic track.
Vladimir Putin noted that the Russian Side had made substantial efforts to facilitate a peaceful settlement around the Iranian nuclear programme and to seek mutually acceptable compromises. The Emirati Side also played an active role in this process.
❗️ However, the progress achieved was undermined by an unprovoked act of armed aggression against a sovereign UN member state, in violation of the fundamental principles of international law.
The President of Russia thanked Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan for the efforts undertaken to assist Russian citizens in the UAE, including a large number of tourists, amid the current force majeure circumstances.
The UAE President particularly stressed that Iran’s retaliatory strikes directly affected the Emirates, causing damage and posing risks to civilians. According to him, such strikes are being carried out despite the fact that UAE territory is not being used as a launchpad for attacks against Iran and are therefore unjustified.
For his part, Vladimir Putin expressed readiness to convey these messages to Tehran and, more broadly, to provide possible assistance in stabilizing the overall situation in the region.
🤝 The leaders agreed to remain in close contact.
#RussiaUAE
🇷🇺🇧🇭 📞 On March 2, President of Russia Vladimir Putin and King of Bahrain Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa, who currently chairs the Gulf Cooperation Council, held a telephone conversation.
The Leaders exchanged views on the unprecedented escalation around Iran resulting from the US-Israeli aggression, which is driving the entire region to the brink of a full-scale war with unpredictable consequences.
Both Sides stressed the urgent need for an immediate ceasefire in order to prevent the situation from spiraling out of control and to return it to a political and diplomatic framework.
The current developments, in particular, pose risks to the security of many Arab states with which Russia maintains friendly relations.
In this context, Vladimir Putin reaffirmed Russia’s readiness to use all available means to actively facilitate the stabilization of the situation in the region.
🤝 The Leaders agreed to remain in contact.
#RussiaBahrain
The Leaders exchanged views on the unprecedented escalation around Iran resulting from the US-Israeli aggression, which is driving the entire region to the brink of a full-scale war with unpredictable consequences.
Both Sides stressed the urgent need for an immediate ceasefire in order to prevent the situation from spiraling out of control and to return it to a political and diplomatic framework.
The current developments, in particular, pose risks to the security of many Arab states with which Russia maintains friendly relations.
In this context, Vladimir Putin reaffirmed Russia’s readiness to use all available means to actively facilitate the stabilization of the situation in the region.
🤝 The Leaders agreed to remain in contact.
#RussiaBahrain
Forwarded from Russian Mission Vienna
🇷🇺 Statement by Permanent Representative of the Russian Federation to the International Organizations in Vienna Mikhail Ulyanov at the special session of the IAEA Board of Governors on the situation around Iran
📍Vienna, March 2, 2026
💬 We convened the special session of the IAEA Board of Governors because we are convinced that the tragic events unfolding in Iran have direct and immediate bearing on the Agency’s mandate and require an urgent response
⬛ However, first and foremost, on behalf of the Russian Federation I would like to begin by extending condolences to the people of Iran in connection with the cynical killing by the USA and Israel of the Supreme Leader of the Islamic Republic of Iran, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, as well as the barbaric attack on a girls’ school in the city of Minab, as a result of which, according to reports, more than 150 people were killed, over one hundred of them children
❗The Russian Federation strongly and categorically condemns the armed aggression against Iran launched by the USA and Israel on the morning of 28 February, the destructive consequences of which have already spread to other countries of the region. Scenario of attacks of June 2025 has been repeated almost identically. Once again, the negotiation process on the Iranian nuclear programme was used as cover for the attack, this time with the direct involvement of the IAEA Director General. Once again, at the centre of the rhetoric and threats of the U.S. leadership are Iran’s nuclear facilities under IAEA safeguards. However, the current statements by the leadership of the United States and Israel leave not the slightest doubt that their sole objective is the overthrow of the legitimate government of Iran and the complete destruction of its statehood
In other words, the concerns declared over past quarter century in the context of Iran’s nuclear programme were merely a facade for pursuing this single objective. This demonstrates that non-proliferation is regarded in Washington exclusively as an instrument for settling political scores with states whose independent policies and sovereign choices they find unacceptable. Such a strikingly reckless and undeniable violation of international law and the UN Charter became possible only because of the prevailing sense of absolute impunity and permissiveness in the United States and, more broadly, across the Western camp
We are closely monitoring situation and categorically state that nuclear facilities must under no circumstances become targets of attacks. We recall that attacks against nuclear facilities and threats of such attacks constitute violations of international law, Charter of the United Nations and Statute of the IAEA, as well as the relevant resolutions of the UN Security Council and Agency’s General Conference. In this context, we particularly emphasize that Russian personnel continues to operate in Iran, servicing the Bushehr NPP. In order to avoid catastrophic consequences for the entire Middle East region, we demand that the United States and Israel immediately cease military actions and return the situation onto a political and diplomatic track of settlement
🇪🇺 We cannot but note the role of the EU and the E3 in consistently servicing Washington’s anti-Iranian line at all its stages: the destruction of the JCPOA, integration into the policy of «maximum pressure», unlawful and unsuccessful attempts to trigger the snapback mechanism under UN Security Council resolution 2231, unjustified escalation in the IAEA Board of Governors, and finally acquiescence in - or even solidarity with - the June aggression. It is now obvious that the alleged threat purportedly emanating from Iran’s nuclear programme never in fact concerned anyone in the West. In this regard, it is important to stress that the IAEA Secretariat, even in its notorious «comprehensive assessment of Iran’s nuclear programme» issued last year, which laid fertile ground for the attack on Iran, never drew conclusions indicating that Tehran might be engaged in the development of nuclear weapons
🔗 Read in full
📍Vienna, March 2, 2026
💬 We convened the special session of the IAEA Board of Governors because we are convinced that the tragic events unfolding in Iran have direct and immediate bearing on the Agency’s mandate and require an urgent response
⬛ However, first and foremost, on behalf of the Russian Federation I would like to begin by extending condolences to the people of Iran in connection with the cynical killing by the USA and Israel of the Supreme Leader of the Islamic Republic of Iran, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, as well as the barbaric attack on a girls’ school in the city of Minab, as a result of which, according to reports, more than 150 people were killed, over one hundred of them children
❗The Russian Federation strongly and categorically condemns the armed aggression against Iran launched by the USA and Israel on the morning of 28 February, the destructive consequences of which have already spread to other countries of the region. Scenario of attacks of June 2025 has been repeated almost identically. Once again, the negotiation process on the Iranian nuclear programme was used as cover for the attack, this time with the direct involvement of the IAEA Director General. Once again, at the centre of the rhetoric and threats of the U.S. leadership are Iran’s nuclear facilities under IAEA safeguards. However, the current statements by the leadership of the United States and Israel leave not the slightest doubt that their sole objective is the overthrow of the legitimate government of Iran and the complete destruction of its statehood
In other words, the concerns declared over past quarter century in the context of Iran’s nuclear programme were merely a facade for pursuing this single objective. This demonstrates that non-proliferation is regarded in Washington exclusively as an instrument for settling political scores with states whose independent policies and sovereign choices they find unacceptable. Such a strikingly reckless and undeniable violation of international law and the UN Charter became possible only because of the prevailing sense of absolute impunity and permissiveness in the United States and, more broadly, across the Western camp
We are closely monitoring situation and categorically state that nuclear facilities must under no circumstances become targets of attacks. We recall that attacks against nuclear facilities and threats of such attacks constitute violations of international law, Charter of the United Nations and Statute of the IAEA, as well as the relevant resolutions of the UN Security Council and Agency’s General Conference. In this context, we particularly emphasize that Russian personnel continues to operate in Iran, servicing the Bushehr NPP. In order to avoid catastrophic consequences for the entire Middle East region, we demand that the United States and Israel immediately cease military actions and return the situation onto a political and diplomatic track of settlement
🇪🇺 We cannot but note the role of the EU and the E3 in consistently servicing Washington’s anti-Iranian line at all its stages: the destruction of the JCPOA, integration into the policy of «maximum pressure», unlawful and unsuccessful attempts to trigger the snapback mechanism under UN Security Council resolution 2231, unjustified escalation in the IAEA Board of Governors, and finally acquiescence in - or even solidarity with - the June aggression. It is now obvious that the alleged threat purportedly emanating from Iran’s nuclear programme never in fact concerned anyone in the West. In this regard, it is important to stress that the IAEA Secretariat, even in its notorious «comprehensive assessment of Iran’s nuclear programme» issued last year, which laid fertile ground for the attack on Iran, never drew conclusions indicating that Tehran might be engaged in the development of nuclear weapons
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🇷🇺🇶🇦 📞 On March 2, President of Russia Vladimir Putin and Emir of Qatar Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani held a telephone conversation.
The discussion focused primarily on the acute crisis in the Middle East triggered by the US-Israeli aggression against Iran.
This flagrant breach of international law has resulted in severe and tragic consequences for the Iranian people.
Both Leaders expressed concern about the risks of further escalation and the possibility of third countries being drawn into the conflict.
At the same time, they voiced hope that Iran’s retaliatory actions would not harm civilians or damage civilian infrastructure in neighbouring states, including facilities in the tourism and transport sectors.
The Emir of Qatar expressed appreciation for the support extended to regional states in the current difficult circumstances and reaffirmed that cooperation with Russia across various fields remains a priority.
Both Sides underscored the importance of a swift de-escalation and a return to political and diplomatic means of resolving differences on the basis of mutual respect and equality.
🤝 The Leaders agreed to maintain contacts through various bilateral channels.
#RussiaQatar
The discussion focused primarily on the acute crisis in the Middle East triggered by the US-Israeli aggression against Iran.
This flagrant breach of international law has resulted in severe and tragic consequences for the Iranian people.
Both Leaders expressed concern about the risks of further escalation and the possibility of third countries being drawn into the conflict.
At the same time, they voiced hope that Iran’s retaliatory actions would not harm civilians or damage civilian infrastructure in neighbouring states, including facilities in the tourism and transport sectors.
The Emir of Qatar expressed appreciation for the support extended to regional states in the current difficult circumstances and reaffirmed that cooperation with Russia across various fields remains a priority.
Both Sides underscored the importance of a swift de-escalation and a return to political and diplomatic means of resolving differences on the basis of mutual respect and equality.
🤝 The Leaders agreed to maintain contacts through various bilateral channels.
#RussiaQatar
#Announcement
🎙 On Wednesday, March 4, Russia’s Foreign Ministry Spokeswoman Maria Zakharova will hold her weekly briefing on current foreign policy issues.
🕚 11.00 am MSK
🕗 8.00 am GMT
🕘 9.00 am CET
🕓 4.00 pm CST
For accreditation inquiries, please contact the MFA Press Centre. Accredited journalists will receive details on the technical aspects of submitting questions.
The Foreign Ministry Spokeswoman will answer media questions received by the call centre.
❗️ Accreditation is open until March 3, 10.00 am MSK.
🎙 On Wednesday, March 4, Russia’s Foreign Ministry Spokeswoman Maria Zakharova will hold her weekly briefing on current foreign policy issues.
🕚 11.00 am MSK
🕗 8.00 am GMT
🕘 9.00 am CET
🕓 4.00 pm CST
For accreditation inquiries, please contact the MFA Press Centre. Accredited journalists will receive details on the technical aspects of submitting questions.
The Foreign Ministry Spokeswoman will answer media questions received by the call centre.
❗️ Accreditation is open until March 3, 10.00 am MSK.
#KievRegimeCrimes
⚡️ Ambassador-at-Large of the Russian Ministry of Foreign Affairs Rodion Miroshnik:
PHOTO EVIDENCE of crimes committed by Ukrainian armed forces over the week of February 23 – March 1, 2026:
▪️ February 23 – an artillery strike on a private residential house in Lyubimovka settlement, Kherson region. A civilian was killed.
▪️ February 23 – a kamikaze UAV struck a civilian passenger vehicle on the Shebekino-Belgorod road section in the Belgorod region.
▪️ February 24 – a drone strike on a private household in Vasilyevka, Zaporozhye region.
▪️ February 27 – a missile strike on an energy facility in Belgorod. Around 60,000 household consumers were left without electricity.
▪️ February 27 – a drone strike on an auto service building in Kursk. One civilian was killed, three others were injured.
▪️ February 27 – massive shelling of civilian infrastructure in Novaya Kakhovka, Kherson region.
▪️ February 28 – drone attacks on civilian vehicles in the Markovsky municipal district of the LPR. One person was killed, two others were injured.
▪️ March 1 – a fixed-wing UAV strike on a civilian vehicle on the Vasilyevka-Berdyansk road section in the Zaporozhye region. A woman was killed, another sustained serious injuries.
▪️ March 1 – an FPV drone strike on a civilian passenger vehicle in Kazinka village, Belgorod region.
▪️ March 1 – a kamikaze UAV strike on a civilian passenger vehicle in Solokhi village, Belgorod region.
⚡️ Ambassador-at-Large of the Russian Ministry of Foreign Affairs Rodion Miroshnik:
PHOTO EVIDENCE of crimes committed by Ukrainian armed forces over the week of February 23 – March 1, 2026:
▪️ February 23 – an artillery strike on a private residential house in Lyubimovka settlement, Kherson region. A civilian was killed.
▪️ February 23 – a kamikaze UAV struck a civilian passenger vehicle on the Shebekino-Belgorod road section in the Belgorod region.
▪️ February 24 – a drone strike on a private household in Vasilyevka, Zaporozhye region.
▪️ February 27 – a missile strike on an energy facility in Belgorod. Around 60,000 household consumers were left without electricity.
▪️ February 27 – a drone strike on an auto service building in Kursk. One civilian was killed, three others were injured.
▪️ February 27 – massive shelling of civilian infrastructure in Novaya Kakhovka, Kherson region.
▪️ February 28 – drone attacks on civilian vehicles in the Markovsky municipal district of the LPR. One person was killed, two others were injured.
▪️ March 1 – a fixed-wing UAV strike on a civilian vehicle on the Vasilyevka-Berdyansk road section in the Zaporozhye region. A woman was killed, another sustained serious injuries.
▪️ March 1 – an FPV drone strike on a civilian passenger vehicle in Kazinka village, Belgorod region.
▪️ March 1 – a kamikaze UAV strike on a civilian passenger vehicle in Solokhi village, Belgorod region.