Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov emphasized the importance of avoiding further conflict escalation during a conversation with his Iranian counterpart, Abbas Araghchi. Lavrov reiterated Russia’s readiness to assist in resolving the crisis, stressing that military means are not the solution. He also mentioned Russia’s initiative for security in the Persian Gulf involving all relevant states and extra-regional countries.
Araghchi updated Lavrov on recent Iranian-American talks in Islamabad and expressed concerns about US activities in sensitive maritime areas. He warned of potential wider repercussions from US actions in the Persian Gulf and the Strait of Hormuz. Lavrov extended condolences to Araghchi for a recent loss within Iran’s diplomatic community.
Lavrov, who is on a two-day official visit to China, will discuss bilateral cooperation and conflicts in Ukraine and West Asia with Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi. The visit will cover various cooperation issues, international collaboration, and hot regional topics. Meanwhile, Russian presidential spokesperson Dmitry Peskov acknowledged the negative impact of the US blockade of the Strait of Hormuz on international markets.
