Russia Urges Trump to Halt Ultimatum to Iran and Return to Negotiations

The Russian government has urged the United States to stop its ultimatum approach in dealing with Iran and return to the negotiating table. This call was made by Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov. Lavrov held a telephone conversation with Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi on Sunday (5/4) local time. Following the discussion, Russia stated that the escalation of the conflict could only be calmed if Washington changes its approach. “This situation will be easier to defuse if the United States abandons the language of ultimatums and returns to the path of negotiations,” read an official statement from the Russian Foreign Ministry. The statement came after US President Donald Trump threatened to destroy vital Iranian infrastructure, including power plants and bridges, if Tehran does not reopen the Strait of Hormuz. In addition, Russia and Iran highlighted attacks on civilian facilities, which they deemed violations of international law. Both called for a halt to attacks on non-military targets. One point of concern was the Bushehr Nuclear Power Plant, which also involves Russian technicians. Moscow expressed worries about the safety of its personnel at the facility. Russian state media reported that nearly 200 workers have begun to be evacuated after projectiles related to US-Israeli military operations fell near the plant’s location. Moscow also expressed hope that various international efforts to reduce tensions will bear fruit. Russia views the diplomatic route as the only way to prevent the conflict from spreading.