Ukraine issued a strong warning to Iran this week following a recent incident in the Caspian Sea. Ukraine’s Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha spoke with Iran’s top diplomat, Abbas Araghchi. Mr. Sybiha urged Iran to avoid any actions that could increase tensions.
Mr. Sybiha also called on Iran to stop supporting Russia’s war against Ukraine. He said this war is illegal and must end. Ukraine stated its actions in the Caspian Sea were aimed only at defending its country. Ukraine denied that it intended to target civilian ships or people.
Mr. Araghchi confirmed the phone call. Iranian media reported that Mr. Sybiha assured him the attack was not intentional. Mr. Araghchi added that Iran does not want tensions to increase. However, he made it clear that any attack on Iranian citizens or interests is not acceptable. Iran will seek payment for any losses.
Iran stated that the Ukrainian attack hit an Iranian commercial vessel. One sailor died and another was injured. Mr. Araghchi said on Sunday that this attack could not go unanswered. He also accused Israel of trying to cause the attack. He believes Israel wanted to pull Europe into its own conflict.
For over four years, Ukraine has faced many attacks using Iranian-designed drones. Ukraine has developed new technology to fight these drone threats. Ukraine has also offered its help to countries in the Middle East. These countries have faced Iranian strikes following US and Israeli attacks on Iran this year.
Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Saar spoke with Mr. Sybiha on Tuesday. They talked about challenges facing both nations, including threats from Iran. Senior Iranian lawmaker Ebrahim Azizi warned that attacks on Iran always have consequences. He said Ukraine might soon understand this.
