In a statement from the Russian Foreign Ministry regarding the phone call between Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov and his Iranian counterpart Abbas Araghchi on 5/4, Moskva expressed hope for substantive progress in efforts to de-escalate tensions concerning Iran.

"That process would proceed more smoothly if the US side ceased using ultimatum-like rhetoric and returned the situation to a negotiation trajectory," the statement said.

Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov in Moskva in 1/2025. Photo: Reuters

The Russian Foreign Ministry's statement noted that both Moskva and Tehran "called on all parties to make efforts to avoid actions, including at the United Nations Security Council, that could undermine remaining opportunities to advance political and diplomatic efforts to resolve the crisis."

Lavrov and Araghchi also urged Washington to halt "illegal attacks on civilian infrastructure," such as the Bushehr nuclear power plant, where Russian personnel are working as technicians.

According to Russian media, Moskva on 4/4 began evacuating 198 of its workers from the Bushehr plant after a US and Israeli projectile landed near the facility.

Tehran and Moskva have maintained close relations in recent years. The US and European countries have accused Iran of assisting Russia in the conflict in Ukraine. Meanwhile, Russia criticized the US and Israel for conducting "dangerous and irresponsible attacks" on Iran, which Moskva believes is pushing the entire Middle East into an abyss.

US President Donald Trump on 5/4 issued a new ultimatum to Iran, demanding Tehran reach an agreement to open the Strait of Hormuz before 8 PM ET on 7/4 (7 AM on 8/4 Hanoi time) or face infrastructure destruction.

Thanh Tam (According to AFP, Reuters)