Russia Warns of Escalating Tensions as Iran-US Talks Advance

(MENAFN) Russia on Thursday called on Iran and regional actors to "exercise restraint and caution" as the Kremlin warned of dangerously escalating tensions it characterized as "unprecedented."

Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov, speaking at a press briefing in Moscow, stressed that diplomatic channels must take precedence over any potential military escalation.

"Russia continues to develop relations with Iran, and in doing so, we call on our Iranian friends and all parties in the region to exercise restraint and caution, and we call on them to adopt political and diplomatic means as an absolute priority in resolving any given issue," Peskov said.

Peskov added that despite the heightened environment, Moscow remains hopeful that dialogue will "prevail in the search for a settlement."

His comments followed the conclusion of a second round of indirect US-Iran negotiations brokered by Oman on Tuesday, with both parties signaling measured progress. US Vice President JD Vance acknowledged the talks were productive "in some ways," while cautioning that Tehran was "not yet willing" to engage on some of Trump's "red lines."

Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi offered a more optimistic read, saying the atmosphere was "more constructive."

The diplomatic activity unfolds against a sharply expanding American military footprint in the region. Washington has deployed the USS Abraham Lincoln carrier strike group, with the USS Gerald R. Ford aircraft carrier en route, accompanied by additional fighter jets.

The Geneva talks marked the second round of negotiations since President Donald Trump ordered strikes on Iran's nuclear facilities last June — the first having taken place in Muscat, Oman, on Feb. 6.

Peskov also addressed a joint naval exercise announced by Iran, set to take place in the Sea of Oman and the northern Indian Ocean on Thursday, clarifying the drill had been scheduled and coordinated well in advance.

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