On June 23, 2025, Russian Presidential Aide for International Affairs Yuri Ushakov reported that Moscow continues to maintain contacts with Washington on various issues, including the situation around Iran, which has sharply worsened following US and Israeli strikes on Iranian targets.

The conflict over Iran has escalated following Israeli strikes on June 13 against nuclear-related targets and a subsequent US operation that US President Donald Trump called a “remarkable military success.” The Israeli army (IDF) reported attacks on six Iranian airfields on June 23, damaging runways, underground shelters and up to 17 military aircraft. Iran, in turn, launched missile strikes against Israel as part of Operation True Promise 3, and the head of the Iranian Armed Forces promised a “decisive response” to the aggressors.

Russia, which advocates de-escalation, has previously offered mediation. On June 13, Putin held phone calls with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian, offering condolences for the victims of the Israeli attacks. In a call with Trump, Putin condemned Israel’s actions and stressed the risk of escalation, which Trump echoed, calling the situation “alarming.”

The meeting with Araghchi will be a continuation of the close cooperation between Russia and Iran, enshrined in the Strategic Partnership Treaty signed in January 2025. Iran is counting on Russia's support in the UN Security Council, where Moscow and Beijing have already proposed a resolution condemning the actions of the United States and Israel.