Lavrov Defends Iran Support in Tehran Amid Trump's Criticism and Regional Escalation
Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov reaffirmed Moscow's full support for Iran during a visit to Tehran, contradicting President Donald Trump's recent claims that Russia is doing little to help Tehran. Lavrov described Iran's cause as 'just' and pledged to maintain economic and investment ties, including the Bushehr nuclear plant and railway projects. This diplomatic push occurs amid ongoing US-Israeli strikes on Iran, which began in February 2026, and escalating tensions in the Strait of Hormuz. While Trump has eased sanctions on Russia to stabilize fuel prices and preserve Ukraine peace talks, he criticized Moscow for not supporting Iran more actively. Meanwhile, Houthi attacks on Saudi Arabia have intensified, prompting US security warnings for Americans in the Middle East.