Russia and Iran in Sync? Putin Hosts High-Level Talks Amid Snapback Threats
As tensions escalate over Iran’s nuclear program and the West inches closer to triggering the "snapback" sanctions mechanism, Tehran is seeking to solidify key alliances. In an unusual move, Russian President Vladimir Putin met on Sunday with Ali Larijani, a senior advisor to Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei.
The high-level meeting comes as the European powers and the U.S. increase pressure on Iran over its nuclear activities, warning of severe consequences unless Tehran returns to negotiations. Iran, in turn, appears to be deepening ties with Moscow.
According to reports, Larijani - known for his expertise on Iran’s nuclear policy - conveyed the Supreme Leader’s strategic assessments to the Kremlin, particularly in light of recent Israeli and American strikes on Iranian targets, and growing Western demands for diplomatic engagement.
Asked about the content of the meeting, Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov confirmed that the conversation focused on Iran’s nuclear program.
“The advisor to the Supreme Leader delivered assessments regarding the worsening situation in the Middle East and developments surrounding Iran’s nuclear activities,” Peskov said. “Russia’s known positions regarding regional stability and the political resolution of the Iranian nuclear issue were reaffirmed.”
Earlier today, Reuters reported that negotiations between Iran and Western powers may resume soon, as the E3 group (France, Germany, and the UK) considers invoking the snapback mechanism - potentially restoring all UN sanctions on Iran.