🇷🇺🗣️ *Statement by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in connection with the U.S. attacks on Iran*. ⭕ Russia strongly condemns the attacks perpetrated by the United States against a number of nuclear facilities of the Islamic Republic of Iran in the early hours of June 22, following the recent attacks by Israel. ⭕ This reckless decision to launch missile and air strikes against the territory of a sovereign state, regardless of the justifications offered, constitutes a flagrant violation of international law, the UN Charter and relevant resolutions of the UN Security Council, which has consistently and unequivocally deemed such actions unacceptable. ⭕ Of particular concern is the fact that the attacks were executed by a permanent member of the United Nations Security Council. The consequences of this action, including possible radioactive effects, have yet to be determined. However, it is already clear that a dangerous escalation is underway that threatens to further destabilize security both in the region and globally. ⭕This has dramatically increased the likelihood of a major conflict in the Middle East, a region already plagued by numerous crises. The attacks on Iranian nuclear facilities have dealt a severe blow to the global nonproliferation regime built around the Treaty on the Non-Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons (NPT), raising particular concerns. They have significantly undermined both the credibility of the NPT and the integrity of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) monitoring and verification mechanisms that underpin it. ⭕We expect the IAEA leadership to respond promptly, professionally and transparently, avoiding ambiguous language or attempts to hide behind political "equidistance". An impartial and objective report from the Director General is needed, for consideration at the next special session of the Agency. ⭕ It is clear that the United Nations Security Council must also take a firm stance. The conflicting and destabilizing actions undertaken by the United States and Israel must be collectively rejected. We call for an immediate cessation of aggression and for intensified efforts to return the situation to a peaceful and diplomatic track.