Russian President Vladimir Putin and UAE President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan discussed the sharpening crisis in the Middle East during a recent telephone call, according to the Kremlin press service.
"The leaders discussed the unprecedented and tragic events in the Middle East within the context of American-Israeli aggression against Iran and Tehran's severe retaliatory measures," the statement read.
Both presidents emphasized that all parties to the Middle East conflict must implement a ceasefire as soon as possible and return to diplomatic resolution.
"Vladimir Putin noted that the Russian side has done much to facilitate a peaceful settlement regarding the Iranian nuclear program and to find mutually acceptable compromises. The Emirati side also played an active role in this process," the report continued.
The Russian president further remarked that existing progress was derailed by an unprovoked act of armed aggression against a sovereign UN member state, which he characterized as a violation of the fundamental principles of international law.
Putin thanked the UAE president for his efforts to assist Russian citizens currently in the Emirates during this force majeure situation. He also expressed a readiness to help stabilize the overall environment in the Middle East.
During the conversation, the UAE president specifically highlighted that Iranian retaliatory strikes have directly impacted the Emirates, causing damage to the country and threatening civilians. He stated that such strikes are being carried out although UAE territory is not being used as a staging ground for attacks against Iran, rendering them entirely unjustified.
"For his part, Vladimir Putin expressed his willingness to convey these signals to Tehran and to provide all possible assistance to stabilize the general regional situation. The leaders agreed to remain in close contact," the press service concluded.
GSV "Russia - Islamic World"
Photo: official website of the President of the Russian Federation
Based on materials of TASS