'Our American colleagues look unreliable,' Lavrov says as Russia stands by Iran

Russia defies US pressure on Iran

Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov said on Wednesday that Moscow would continue its cooperation with Iran, brushing aside US threats of military action and economic pressure.

Speaking at a news conference in Moscow, Lavrov dismissed Washington’s rhetoric, warning that it was harmful to international stability.

He said Russia would press ahead with implementing bilateral agreements with Tehran and stressed that no outside power could influence the nature of the relationship. Lavrov underlined that ties between the two countries are grounded in agreements reached by their presidents and are designed to serve the interests of their peoples.

Responding to questions about rising US pressure on Iran — including warnings of possible military strikes and tariffs on countries that maintain ties with Tehran — Lavrov took aim at Washington’s approach.

“Our American colleagues look unreliable when they act in this way,” he said, accusing the United States of abandoning principles it once championed.

Lavrov also argued that Washington was undermining the very international system it helped create. He pointed to what he described as an illegal attempt to remove Venezuelan leader Nicolas Maduro and to threats directed at Iran, saying such actions weakened international law and eroded US credibility.

The Russian foreign minister reiterated that Moscow and Tehran remain committed to honouring their agreements, insisting that no third country could alter the foundations of their relationship. He noted that cooperation spans economic and infrastructure projects and is guided by shared interests.

His remarks come at a time of heightened tensions between the United States and Iran. US President Donald Trump has warned of “strong action” in response to unrest in Iran and has threatened punitive steps against countries doing business with Tehran, including possible tariffs. Iran, meanwhile, has accused Washington of attempting to fuel instability as protests continue across the country.

(With inputs from agencies)