Russian FM Sergey Lavrov visits Tehran for talks
Russia's Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov looks on as he attends a joint press conference with his Turkish counterpart in Ankara on Feb. 24, 2025. (AFP Photo)
Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov arrived in Tehran on Tuesday for diplomatic discussions with senior Iranian officials, Iranian state media reported.
Focus on bilateral, regional relations
Lavrov is scheduled to meet with his Iranian counterpart, Abbas Araghchi, to discuss “Russian-Iranian relations” as well as “a number of current international issues,” according to the Russian Foreign Ministry.
Topics expected to be covered include developments in Syria and Yemen, as well as the status of the 2015 Iran nuclear deal.
The visit comes amid heightened geopolitical tensions following the reinstatement of the United States’ “maximum pressure” campaign against Iran under President Donald Trump.
Earlier this month, Washington imposed a new round of sanctions targeting Iran’s oil industry, the country’s primary economic driver.
Strengthening Russia-Iran ties
Russia and Iran have expanded their defense and economic cooperation in recent years, drawing criticism from Western nations.
Both countries have faced extensive sanctions—Russia for its actions in Ukraine and Iran over its nuclear program and regional activities.
During his visit, Lavrov is expected to reaffirm Moscow’s commitment to its strategic partnership with Tehran.
In January, Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian and Russian President Vladimir Putin signed a comprehensive strategic partnership, further cementing their economic and military ties.
Regional and security concerns
Iran has denied accusations from Ukraine and Western allies that it has supplied weapons to Russia for use in the Ukraine conflict.
Moscow and Tehran have also been key allies in Syria, though their efforts suffered a major setback in December when opposition-led forces ousted Bashar al-Assad’s government after more than a decade of conflict.
Russia’s Foreign Ministry has emphasized the importance of continued dialogue with Iran on regional security, trade and energy projects.
Lavrov’s discussions in Tehran are expected to address ongoing diplomatic efforts and the future of their strategic alliance.
