Russia is showing signs of anxiety over the potential actions of former President Donald Trump, particularly regarding the ongoing conflict between Israel and Iran. This unease was highlighted by comments from Sergei Ryabkov, Russia’s deputy foreign minister, who cautioned the United States against getting involved in Israel’s military operations. Moscow is worried that it could lose Iran, its closest ally in the Middle East.
The relationship between Russia and Iran has strengthened since Russia’s invasion of Ukraine. Earlier this year, the two countries formalized their ties through a strategic partnership pact. Initially, Russia appeared to see the conflict between Israel and Iran as a chance to gain influence. The Kremlin offered to mediate, hoping to persuade Iran to return to nuclear negotiations with the U.S. This could have allowed Russia to leverage support for Ukraine in exchange for its mediation.
However, these mediation efforts have not been successful. With Trump now threatening to target Iran’s supreme leader, Russia has shifted into crisis mode. The Kremlin fears losing another significant ally in the region, especially after the Assad regime’s decline in Syria.
In addition to Ryabkov’s remarks, other Russian officials have voiced their concerns. Sergei Naryshkin, the head of Russia’s intelligence agency, described the situation as "critical." Maria Zakharova, a spokeswoman for the foreign ministry, warned that the world is "millimetres away from catastrophe" due to Israeli strikes on Iran’s nuclear facilities.
This situation is particularly striking given Russia’s ongoing military actions against Ukraine. Now, it is calling for restraint from others, as U.S. involvement could have serious implications for both Iran and Russia.