Putin urges Iran de-escalation in call with Pezeshkian

Russian President Vladimir Putin reaffirmed Moscow's commitment to seeking a political resolution to the escalating conflict involving Iran during a Tuesday telephone conversation with Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian, the Kremlin announced. The discussion marked the second such dialogue between the two leaders in less than a week, following their initial call on Friday as regional tensions continue to mount.

According to a Kremlin readout, "The Russian President reaffirmed his principled position in favor of a swift de-escalation of the conflict and its resolution through political means." The statement indicated that both leaders focused on the situation in the Middle East, with particular attention to the ongoing US-Israeli attacks against Iranian targets. Pezeshkian took the opportunity to thank Russia for its backing, specifically acknowledging Moscow's provision of humanitarian assistance to Tehran during the crisis.

Deepening Russia-Iran coordination

Tuesday's call represents continued diplomatic engagement between Moscow and Tehran as the conflict enters its second week. The conversation followed Putin's Monday telephone discussion with US President Donald Trump, during which the Russian leader similarly called for a "quick political and diplomatic settlement" to the Iran situation, according to a presidential aide. This dual-track diplomacy positions Russia as a potential intermediary, maintaining communication channels with both Washington and Tehran even as hostilities intensify.

Regional conflict expands

The diplomatic efforts come against the backdrop of severe escalation that began Feb. 28 when Israel and the United States launched joint military operations against Iran. The campaign has reportedly resulted in more than 1,200 fatalities, including Iranian Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. Tehran has responded with retaliatory drone and missile strikes targeting Israel as well as Gulf nations hosting American military assets, disrupting global energy markets and raising concerns throughout the region. Türkiye continues to monitor these developments closely, given their potential impact on regional stability and Ankara's strategic interests along its eastern and southern borders.