ISTANBUL – Russian President Vladimir Putin has reaffirmed Moscow’s opposition to the spread of weapons of mass destruction, including any potential acquisition by Iran, in an interview published Saturday.
Putin told Sky News Arabia that Russia supports Iran’s right to develop nuclear energy for peaceful purposes, emphasizing that the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) has “found no evidence” suggesting Tehran seeks to build nuclear weapons.
He reaffirmed Russia’s firm opposition to the proliferation of weapons of mass destruction, describing Iran’s fatwa banning nuclear weapons as a serious and “important” step that should be taken seriously.
“We believe Iran has the right to use nuclear energy peacefully, and we are ready to help,” Putin said.
Hostilities broke out on June 13 when Israel launched airstrikes on several sites across Iran, including military and nuclear facilities, prompting Tehran to launch retaliatory strikes.
Moscow had informed Israeli leaders multiple times that “Iran is not pursuing nuclear weapons,” urging dialogue to reduce regional fears and promote collective security.
Ukraine as ‘neutral country’
The Russian president also said it is essential to “declare Ukraine a neutral country, outside any military alliances, and without nuclear weapons,” adding that such guarantees are vital for lasting regional stability.
He stressed that Russia insists on Kyiv recognizing the results of referendums held in four Ukrainian regions, warning: “Ignoring them would mean the possibility of renewed armed conflict.”
Putin claimed that Russia and Ukraine were close to an agreement during the 2022 Istanbul talks, and expressed hope that Ukraine’s current leadership would prioritize national interests “rather than the agendas of third parties.”
He accused “external actors” of exploiting Ukraine for geopolitical goals, saying: “Ukraine deserves a better fate than to be a tool in the hands of those working against Russia.”
ANADOLU
