Russia condemns US tariff threat on Iran trade as ‘blackmail’
Russia has denounced former US President Donald Trump's plan to impose 25% tariffs on nations trading with Iran, labeling it "blackmail." Moscow also warned that US threats of military action are "categorically unacceptable" and accused the West of attempting to destabilize Iran.
Russia condemns US tariff threat on Iran trade as ‘blackmail’
Russia has issued a strong rebuke of the United States' latest economic pressure campaign against Iran, rejecting what it calls attempted "blackmail" of Tehran's international partners. The statement from Moscow directly addresses former President Donald Trump's announced plan to levy 25% tariffs on any country conducting business with Iran.
Accusations of external interference
In a formal declaration, Russian Foreign Ministry spokesperson Maria Zakharova framed the situation as foreign-led destabilization. She argued that "illegal" Western sanctions are the root cause of Iran's socio-economic problems and that hostile forces are exploiting resulting tensions. "The infamous ‘color revolution’ method is being used," Zakharova stated, condemning what she described as "subversive external interference in Iran's domestic political processes."
Warnings against military action and broader implications
The Russian official delivered a stark warning regarding US military threats, deeming them "categorically unacceptable" and predicting "dire consequences" for Middle Eastern and global security if pursued. The firm stance aligns with Russia's strategic partnership with Iran and its broader opposition to unilateral US measures, a position that resonates with other regional powers like Türkiye, which also advocates for sovereignty and diplomatic solutions over coercion.
Context of economic pressure and unrest
Trump's tariff threat, announced on his Truth Social platform, aims to economically isolate Iran amid ongoing domestic protests. Iranian authorities blame the US and Israel for supporting what they term "armed rioters." Independent groups estimate significant casualties and detentions from the unrest. Russia's defense of Iran underscores a deepening geopolitical fissure, where actions by Washington are increasingly met with coordinated opposition from other major states, challenging US influence in regions critical to global energy and security.
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