In the aftermath of US air strikes on Iran’s nuclear facilities, global diplomatic activity has intensified.

Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi announced an urgent visit to Moscow for a high-level meeting with Russian President Vladimir Putin, aiming to discuss the growing regional crisis.

While the Kremlin confirmed no immediate plans for a direct call between Putin and US President Donald Trump, it hinted that a conversation could take place soon.

Araghchi said that Russia is a long-standing friend of Iran, and the two countries have always consulted each other.

“We will continue to work with each other,” he said.

Speaking at an emergency press briefing in Istanbul, Araghchi emphasized that Iran never left the negotiation table, insisting, “How can we return to talks we never left?”

He accused the United States and Israel of derailing delicate diplomatic efforts that had been underway with European intermediaries just days prior.

“Last week, Iran and the US were engaged in indirect diplomacy, which was intentionally sabotaged by Israel,” Araghchi stated.

“This week, productive talks occurred between Iran and European representatives — but the US chose aggression over diplomacy.”

Araghchi also declared that Iran’s nuclear programme is peaceful and that the US strike represents a flagrant violation of international law.

He urged the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) to investigate the attack.

He warned that the US aggression will have disastrous consequences, stating: “Iran will never compromise its independence or sovereignty. The American president promised to end wars, yet he has ignited another.”

Araghchi called out the United States’ double standards, saying that as a permanent member of the UN Security Council, Washington is now undermining global peace.

He reaffirmed Iran’s commitment to diplomatic solutions, but made it clear that Tehran reserves the right to defend itself under the UN Charter.

“We are not interested in escalation,” he said, “but the path to peace cannot be paved with bombs.”

The Iranian official added that Russia remains a key strategic partner, and both nations will continue close coordination in the face of regional instability.