Deputy Chairman of the Russian Security Council Dmitry Medvedev today criticized US President Donald Trump, saying he had dragged the United States into a new conflict with the prospect of a ground operation due to orders to strike Iranian nuclear facilities. In a message on his Telegram channel, Medvedev noted that Trump, who promised to act as a peacemaker, started the conflict by joining Israel in attacking Iran's nuclear centers. According to the Russian politician, the actions of the US and Israel do not find support in most countries of the world, and some countries may begin to supply Iran with nuclear weapons, although he did not specify whether Russia, which is called Tehran's strategic partner, is among them.
The strikes, which took place overnight on Sunday, hit key targets in Natanz, Isfahan and Fordow, using bunker buster bombs and cruise missiles. Trump called the operation a success in a televised address, saying it was justified by Iran's 40-year-old threats against the United States and Israel. He called on Tehran to immediately conclude a new nuclear deal, threatening more attacks if it refused. Medvedev, however, was skeptical of Washington's claims, saying there was no serious damage to Iranian facilities. He said the attacks had only united Iranian society around the ayatollahs, pushing the country to develop nuclear weapons.
The conflict began in June 2025 with Israeli strikes on Iranian infrastructure, which the United States joined in an effort to neutralize Iran's nuclear capabilities. Tehran responded with missile attacks on Israeli cities and increased activity by its allies, including the Houthis in Yemen. According to Iran's IRNA news agency, the strikes did not damage the main production facilities, as the equipment had been evacuated in advance. Analysts note that Iranian centrifuges continue to operate, which confirms the resilience of the facilities.
Tensions are rising in the region. According to Bloomberg, Iran is strengthening its forces in the Strait of Hormuz, deploying additional air defense batteries in the Bandar-e-Mahshahr area. At the same time, Israeli F-16 fighters have been spotted near the Syrian border, preparing for new operations. In Iraq, American bases in Erbil and Al-Asad have been put on high alert, fearing Iranian retaliation.
Analysts point out that Medvedev's words reflect Russia's position that the conflict is an opportunity to strengthen ties with Iran. Despite sanctions, Tehran continues to upgrade its missile systems, including new Zolfaghar models, which strengthens its defenses. In Yemen, the Houthis have threatened to attack American ships, which could widen the conflict zone.