Moscow (Voice of Russia): Russian Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Maria Zakharova has termed the missile attack on Iran’s Bushehr Nuclear Power Plant as “irresponsible and absolutely unacceptable,” urging the International Atomic Energy Agency and the international community to issue an immediate and unequivocal condemnation.
In her statement, she said Russia remains in contact with all parties involved in the Iran-related conflict and continues to emphasize the need for de-escalation. According to her, issues related to navigation in the Strait of Hormuz must be resolved through dialogue at the negotiating table.
Zakharova warned that the ongoing tensions in the Middle East pose a direct threat to global energy security, pushing oil and gas markets into instability and uncertainty. Citing experts, she said a 30-day disruption in oil supplies could stabilize prices at around $76 per barrel by year-end, while a two-month disruption could raise prices to $93. In case of prolonged conflict, prices may surge to between $150 and $200 per barrel.
She further noted that attacks on oil storage facilities in Iran have led to environmental pollution, particularly around the capital Tehran, posing risks to the wider region.
Commenting on Israeli actions in Lebanon, the Russian spokeswoman condemned strikes on civilian targets and warned that any potential ground operation would further escalate the situation.
On the Ukraine conflict, Zakharova alleged that Ukrainian forces are increasing attacks on civilian infrastructure, claiming these actions are backed by the same actors involved in the Middle East. She also stated that Ukraine is rapidly becoming a major hub for international arms trade, posing serious risks to global security.
Rejecting claims made by Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, she said the reported military casualty figures do not reflect reality and lack credibility.
Russia also expressed concern over South Korea’s possible participation in NATO-led arms supplies to Ukraine, warning that such a move could negatively impact bilateral relations.
Criticizing Western policies, Zakharova said European bureaucracy has burdened its own citizens by abandoning Russian energy, adding that the European ambition to inflict a “strategic defeat” on Russia has itself failed.
She praised Hungary’s leadership for maintaining a balanced foreign policy stance despite external pressure.
Responding to remarks by UN Secretary-General António Guterres, she said such statements do not align with the principles of the United Nations and undermine its credibility.
On the issue of language, Zakharova dismissed statements by Ukrainian officials as “pseudo-scientific,” asserting that attempts to suppress the Russian language will ultimately fail.
In conclusion, she warned that if Japan proceeds with the purchase of US Tomahawk missiles, Russia will take necessary countermeasures to maintain its defense capabilities, while reaffirming Moscow’s commitment to resolving global challenges through diplomatic means.
