Putin Calls Iran President, Offers Support After US Talks Fail
Russian President Vladimir Putin held a telephone conversation with Iranian President Masoud
Pezeshkian on Sunday, April 12, 2026, offering Russia’s readiness to mediate and support diplomatic
efforts to resolve the Middle East crisis following the collapse of direct talks between the United States
and Iran.
According to the Kremlin readout, Putin emphasised his readiness to “further facilitate the search for a
political and diplomatic settlement to the conflict, and to mediate efforts to achieve a just and lasting
peace in the Middle East.”
He also stated that Russia would continue active contacts with all regional partners in this regard.
The phone call took place hours after high-stakes US-Iran negotiations in Islamabad, Pakistan, on
Saturday, April 11, 2026, ended without reaching any agreement.
The talks, mediated by Pakistan, were aimed at converting a fragile two-week ceasefire into a more
permanent arrangement following weeks of military escalation that began in late February 2026.
No breakthrough was achieved on key issues, including Iran’s nuclear programme, regional proxies, and
security guarantees.
During the conversation, President Pezeshkian provided his assessment of the failed talks in Islamabad
and expressed gratitude for Russia’s principled position on de-escalation, including on international
platforms, as well as for humanitarian assistance provided to Iran.
The Kremlin described Russia as remaining a “loyal friend and reliable partner” to Iran, with both sides
also discussing bilateral cooperation and reaffirming their commitment to strengthening ties.
The development comes amid ongoing uncertainty over the ceasefire between the US/Israel and Iran.
Analysts note that Putin’s offer positions Russia as a potential alternative mediator at a time when direct
US-Iran diplomacy has stalled, raising concerns about possible renewed hostilities that could impact
global energy prices and regional stability.
As of April 12, 2026, neither the US nor Iranian side had issued immediate public comments on Putin’s
mediation offer. The situation remains fluid, with the fragile ceasefire still holding but under strain.
By Oyinkansola Shittu.
