Putin slams Israeli strikes on Iran; Critics say ‘Practice what you preach’

Russia President Vladimir Putin has demanded that Israel immediately stop all air and missile strikes on Iran’s nuclear infrastructure.

In a statement released on late Wednesday, June 18, 2025, the Russian Foreign Ministry warned that Israel’s actions could trigger a catastrophic regional escalation.

Moscow called the Israeli strikes “reckless, provocative, and in violation of international norms.”

Russian diplomats said the ongoing assault against Iran’s nuclear sites risks undermining nuclear non-proliferation and global stability.

Russia has consistently supported Iran’s civilian nuclear rights, while deepening military and economic ties with Tehran.

The Kremlin’s warning came just hours after new Israeli strikes hit military and nuclear-linked sites in Isfahan and Tehran.

Russia’s tone was unusually sharp, with officials urging “immediate restraint to avoid uncontrollable consequences.”

However, global analysts quickly pointed out a glaring contradiction in Russia’s position.

Several Western diplomats and media outlets accused Moscow of blatant hypocrisy.

They described the Russian demand as “a textbook case of the pot calling the kettle black.”

The phrase refers to someone criticizing another for actions they themselves are guilty of.

In this case, Russia is warning Israel about aggression—despite its own full-scale invasion of Ukraine in 2022.

Russia has carried out thousands of airstrikes on Ukrainian cities, power grids, and civilian targets over the last three years.

Critics say it’s ironic for Moscow to call for peace and restraint while waging its own brutal war in Europe.

A former NATO commander said, “Putin condemning Israeli airstrikes is like an arsonist lecturing others about fire safety.”

Still, Russia’s warning underscores the high geopolitical stakes of the current Israel-Iran conflict.

Moscow maintains strong ties with both Iran and Syria and has deployed military assets in the region.

Israeli officials have not yet responded to Russia’s latest demand, but say strikes are vital to preventing nuclear threats.

Iran has accused Israel of trying to cripple its sovereignty and provoke wider war through attacks on strategic infrastructure.

Meanwhile, explosions continue across Israeli cities as Iran launches more waves of missiles and drones.

The United Nations has called for an immediate ceasefire, though both sides remain locked in a deadly tit-for-tat.

The conflict, now entering its sixth day, is threatening to spiral beyond Israel and Iran — pulling in major world powers.

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