Ambassador Albert P. Khorev's Comment to the Russian newspaper “Izvestia” (April 20, 2026) ❓️Is Russia acting as a mediator in the negotiations between the United States and Iran? Are there any consultations taking place? 💬 Albert P. Khorev: Russia is not acting as a direct mediator in the negotiations between the U.S. and Iran. At the same time, from the outset of the unprovoked armed aggression by the United States and Israel against Iran, Russia has made every effort to prevent further escalation of the conflict. The Russian leadership remains in constant contact with its regional partners, including Iran, Bahrain, Egypt, Iraq, Oman, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, Turkey and the UAE. Moscow has consistently emphasized the need for an immediate cessation of hostilities, particularly those affecting civilian infrastructure and causing suffering in the Gulf states. 🤝 Russia has repeatedly reaffirmed its full support for the continuation of political and diplomatic efforts between the United States and Iran, with Pakistan acting as a mediator. ❓️Are Moscow and Islamabad in contact regarding developments in the Middle East? Are the two sides discussing the progress of the U.S.-Iran negotiations? 💬 Albert P. Khorev: We maintain regular contact with our Pakistani partners on both the situation in the Middle East and a wide range of other pressing regional and international issues. Russia highly values Islamabad’s positive role in providing a venue and fostering an environment conducive to Iranian-American dialogue. We hope the parties will demonstrate a responsible approach and reach agreement on the modalities of a long-term settlement.