Vladimir Putin stated that Iran did not ask Russia for military assistance amid its growing tensions with Israel, noting that their strategic partnership does not include provisions for military support.
Speaking at the St. Petersburg International Economic Forum, Putin stressed that while Russia maintains close ties with Iran – including collaboration on civilian nuclear energy projects – no request has been made of them to provide defense systems or troops (Wsj, Kurdistan24.net).
He emphasized that the January 2025 strategic treaty, which covers areas such as counterterrorism, energy, and finance, specifically excludes military commitments (en.wikipedia.org).
Putin offered to mediate an agreement between Iran and Israel – suggesting Moscow could broker an accord that safeguards Iran’s peaceful nuclear aspirations while meeting Israeli security needs – but made it clear that Tehran has not asked Russia for direct military backing (kurdistan24.net, APNW News Service etc).
He noted that during prior negotiations, Russia offered air defense systems to Iran; however, Tehran declined them instead choosing not to integrate them into their air defense infrastructure.
Putin stressed Moscow’s humanitarian concerns, noting that Israeli strikes had not affected Russian personnel working at Iran’s Bushehr nuclear plant. He added that Russia received assurances from Israel assuring their safety (APNews.com; TimesofIsrael.com and Reuter’s).
He confirmed that Iran’s underground uranium enrichment sites remain undamaged by recent Israeli operations (according to TimesofIsrael.com, Reuter’s.com and Wsj).
Analysts contend Russia’s cautious stance reflects wider geopolitical priorities. With Russia already involved in Ukraine, policymakers appear unwilling to engage in another military conflict. Also contributing may be Russia’s desire to maintain good relationships with Israel, Gulf Arab states and to limit Iran’s military capacities significantly (source). To learn more click here to check theatlantic.com
Iran remains an essential partner despite their withdrawal of military support, thanks to a comprehensive strategic partnership treaty signed in January and fully ratified by mid-June that sets out a 20-year cooperative roadmap covering defense, nuclear energy, cybersecurity and economic initiatives (according to Wikipedia, The Guardian etc). The treaty was fully signed on June 6th (according to The Guardian etc)
Putin’s remarks came amid fractured Iran-Russia policy dynamics. While Russia joined international criticism of Israeli airstrikes on Iranian territory, it refrained from direct military intervention. Analysts note that an extended Iran-Israel crisis could jeopardize Moscow’s investments in Iran, disrupt supply routes, and weaken regional influence.
Russia seeks to present itself as a stabilizing force by emphasizing its diplomatic ambitions while refusing military involvement and offering mediation. Russia hopes that any resolution must strike a balance between Iran’s right to peaceful nuclear energy production and Israeli security concerns; Putin encouraged all parties involved to follow this course of action.
Future expectations regarding Russia may change with its restrained role. Even as Iran bolsters its military posture, its full reliance appears not on Moscow but domestic capabilities and allies instead. Meanwhile, Russia maintains its role as broker rather than combatant; hoping to maintain strategic leverage without inviting an escalated Middle East dynamic.