Russia supports Iran against Western pressure, Foreign Ministry spokesperson says

Maria Zakharova, spokesperson for Russia's Foreign Ministry, stated on Sunday that Moscow supports its allies, including Iran, and dismissed Western criticisms of Russia's inability to defend its partners as "baseless."

According to Russia's state news agency TASS, Zakharova emphasized that Russia pursues an independent policy and that its support for allies like Iran contributes to preserving their "sovereignty and stability." She responded to critics, noting that such claims come from those who previously accused Russia of interfering in other countries' elections.

Zakharova described Russia-Iran relations as based on "strategic relations," diplomatic cooperation, and coordination in international organizations, but provided no further details on the nature or extent of the support.

She criticized what she called Western "pressures, sanctions, and even sabotage actions" against certain countries, claiming these have had widespread impacts on their populations. Zakharova also highlighted Western reactions to deadly earthquakes in the region, saying the international community showed sympathy for Turkey but insufficient attention to damages in Syria.

Western countries have stated that sanctions target the Syrian government and exclude humanitarian aid, though Russian officials have repeatedly said these restrictions hinder aid delivery.

Iran and Russia have expanded political, economic, and military cooperation in recent years, particularly following intensified Western sanctions against both. Moscow portrays Iran as a strategic ally, amid reports that many analysts believe a countdown has begun for a potential U.S. attack on Iran, even as nuclear program negotiations continue in Geneva.