Russia’s President Vladimir Putin

Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi is set to meet Russian President Vladimir Putin in Moscow on Monday for what Iranian officials have described as “important” discussions following a major U.S. airstrike on Iran’s nuclear facilities over the weekend.

The high-level visit comes amid heightened tensions in the region after the United States launched a targeted assault on key Iranian nuclear sites—an escalation that followed a wave of Israeli strikes on June 13. In response, Iran had retaliated with a barrage of missiles and drones, raising fears of a broader regional conflict.

Russia, a long-time ally of Tehran and co-signatory of a recent strategic partnership pact, has expressed concern over the situation but stopped short of offering direct military assistance. While Moscow has condemned both the U.S. and Israeli strikes as “irresponsible”, its response has been largely diplomatic, avoiding any firm commitments.

Araghchi emphasised the significance of the visit upon arrival in Moscow, stating through Russian state media: “In this new dangerous situation … our consultations with Russia can certainly be of great importance.”

According to Iran’s state-run IRNA news agency, Araghchi is expected to hold talks with Putin and other top Russian officials “regarding regional and international developments following the military aggression by the United States and the Zionist regime against Iran”.

Putin, who initially positioned himself as a potential mediator between Iran and Israel, appeared to backtrack last week, clarifying that Russia was merely “suggesting ideas” for de-escalation. Speaking at the Saint Petersburg Economic Forum on Friday, he said, “We are by no means seeking to act as a mediator. We are simply suggesting ideas. If they turn out to be attractive to both sides, we will only be happy.”

While Russia has voiced opposition to Western military involvement in the Middle East, its limited response to recent developments has drawn scrutiny, especially in light of its expanded strategic and military cooperation agreement with Tehran signed earlier this year.

The meeting between Araghchi and Putin could be a defining moment for Iran-Russia relations as Tehran seeks stronger international backing amid growing isolation and rising military threats. The outcome of the talks may also indicate whether Moscow is willing to deepen its support or continue walking a diplomatic tightrope in the face of intensifying regional volatility.