Russian President Vladimir Putin and Chinese President Xi Jinping held a phone call on Thursday, strongly condemning Israel’s ongoing strikes on Iran and calling for urgent de-escalation, the Kremlin announced.

The leaders criticized Israel’s actions as violations of the UN Charter and international law, amid fears of a broader regional conflict now in its seventh day.

“Both Moscow and Beijing fundamentally believe there is no military solution to the current situation or issues related to Iran’s nuclear program,” Kremlin aide Yuri Ushakov told reporters. “This solution must be achieved exclusively through political and diplomatic means.”

Russia has repeatedly warned of catastrophic consequences should the Israel-Iran conflict escalate further and has urged the United States to refrain from supporting Israel’s bombardment. Putin, who has recently spoken with U.S. President Donald Trump, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, and Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian, reiterated Russia’s offer to mediate between the warring parties. However, no side has yet accepted the proposal.

During Thursday’s call, Putin discussed the mediation offer with Xi, who expressed support, noting it could help de-escalate the “acute situation,” Ushakov said. The two leaders, close allies, vowed to maintain close contact in the coming days to address the crisis.

As tensions mount, the international community watches closely, with Russia and China positioning themselves as advocates for a peaceful resolution to the escalating Middle East conflict. (ILKHA)