Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi is leaving for an emergency visit to Russia to meet President Vladimir Putin on Monday morning, June 23, 2025. The visit comes in response to the US decision to join Israeli strikes on Iranian nuclear sites more than a week ago, which Araghchi said crossed a “major red line.” He added that Iran intends to exercise its right to self-defense to respond to the aggression, citing reports from the BBC and CNN.

The US attacks on Sunday night, using bunker busters and cruise missiles against targets in Fordow, Natanz and Isfahan, were the culmination of a conflict that began with Israeli operations. Iran responded with rocket attacks on Israeli cities, which provoked further escalation. Araghchi stressed that Moscow, as a reliable ally, will be a key partner in discussing further steps.

Experts are skeptical about the idea of ​​supplying Iran with S-400 systems, pointing to Russia's limited stockpiles and the risk of their destruction by the enemy.

Iran is stepping up security, with local sources reporting that additional air defense forces, including Tor-M2 systems, are being deployed in provinces close to nuclear sites. Meanwhile, the Israeli Air Force is continuing its operations, striking the Iranian port of Bandar Abbas, as captured by satellite images from Planet Labs. In response, Tehran is stepping up its missile forces, placing missile launchers near the border with Iraq.

Analysts say Araghchi's visit to Moscow signals Iran's attempt to shore up support for Russia amid mounting pressure. Tehran is counting on diplomatic and possibly technological assistance, although Moscow's military involvement remains uncertain given its own strategic priorities.