Russian President Vladimir Putin on Monday condemned the recent U.S. airstrikes on Iran, calling them unjustified and expressing Moscow’s continued support for the Iranian people. He made the remarks during a meeting in Moscow with Iran’s Foreign Minister, Abbas Araqchi, held just two days after U.S. President Donald Trump ordered attacks on Iran’s three primary nuclear sites. “The aggression against Iran was unprovoked and lacks any justification,” Putin said in televised comments. “We are committed to assisting the Iranian people, and I’m pleased you are here today in Moscow. This gives us an opportunity to discuss the current crisis and explore solutions together.” Araqchi, in response, described Iran’s actions as legitimate self-defence and expressed gratitude for Russia’s condemnation of the strikes. He also delivered well wishes from Iran’s supreme leader and president, stating, “Russia stands today on the right side of history and international law.” Despite offering diplomatic backing, it remains uncertain what specific measures Moscow might take in support of Tehran. The bilateral strategic cooperation treaty signed in January does not include provisions for mutual defence. Before the attacks, Russia had warned that any U.S. military intervention could destabilise the Middle East and provoke serious consequences. When asked about potential support for Iran, Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said, “It depends on Iran’s needs,” adding that Moscow’s willingness to mediate should be seen as a form of assistance. Peskov strongly criticised the U.S. strikes, noting a new phase of regional escalation. “There’s now an increase in the number of actors involved in this conflict,” he said. “We deeply regret this development and unequivocally condemn the attack.” He also voiced concern about possible radiation risks at the targeted nuclear sites and confirmed that President Trump did not provide Putin with prior detailed information about the strikes.