Russia's Putin says U.S. attack on Iran would be catastrophic
Russian President Vladimir Putin said on Thursday that a U.S. military attack on Iran would be a catastrophe for the Middle East that would trigger a surge in violence and a possible refugee exodus. Putin, speaking during his annual televised question and answer session, said Moscow believed Tehran was in full compliance with its nuclear commitments and called sanctions against Iran groundless.
- World
- AP
- Published Date: 04:33 | 20 June 2019
- Modified Date: 04:33 | 20 June 2019
Russian President Vladimir Putin is warning the U.S. against using force on Iran, saying it would have catastrophic consequences.
Tensions have been building up recently over last week's attacks on tankers near the Strait of Hormuz, assaults that Washington has blamed on Iran. Iran has denied the accusations.
Speaking on Thursday during a televised call-in show, Putin said the U.S. military action against Iran would be a "catastrophe for the region as a minimum."
He added that it would trigger an escalation of hostilities with unpredictable results.
Putin noted that Iran has abided by the terms of a nuclear deal despite the U.S. withdrawal, adding that he considers U.S. sanctions against Iran unfounded.