Russia concerned over Iran tensions

By Elena Teslova

MOSCOW (AA) - Russia on Wednesday expressed concern at the escalating tensions over Iran, despite the U.S. Secretary of State Mike Pompeo stating that his country did not want war.

Talking to reporters, Russian presidential spokesperson Dmitry Peskov squarely held the U.S. responsible for stoking tensions by withdrawing from the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Actions (JCPoA),

“We clearly understand that Iran is not taking these decisions proactively, but responding to the pressure, contrary to the letter and spirit of the JCPoA," he said.

Peskov added that Pompeo did not give any assurance regarding Iran at the meeting with Russian President Vladimir Putin on Tuesday.

Pompeo, speaking at a news conference following the meeting in Sochi, said that the U.S. will continue to apply pressure on Iran.

He said the U.S. does not want war with Iran but will respond "in an appropriate manner" if its interests are attacked.