In a statement that could escalate global nuclear tensions, Russia’s former president and current Security Council deputy chair Dmitry Medvedev has claimed that “a number of countries are ready to directly supply Iran with their own nuclear warheads.”
The explosive comment, made during an interview on Russian state media early Sunday, June 22, 2025, comes amid rising hostilities following the U.S. strike on Iranian nuclear facilities and Tehran’s retaliatory missile barrage on Israeli cities.
“If the West continues its aggression, don’t be surprised if Iran receives real nuclear weapons—not just the capability to build them,” Medvedev said.
“There are countries prepared to help.”
While Medvedev did not name specific nations, the remark is being interpreted as a veiled threat directed at NATO allies and the United States.
Western intelligence officials have not confirmed any such agreements but are reportedly monitoring the situation closely.
U.S. State Department called the statement “deeply irresponsible and destabilizing.”
Israel’s Defense Ministry said it would treat any nuclear transfer to Iran as a “red line.”
NATO leadership has called for an emergency consultation.
Diplomatic observers say Medvedev’s remarks may be more rhetorical than operational, but given the timing—and Russia’s close ties with Tehran—the statement is being taken extremely seriously by Western capitals.
Tensions in the Middle East reached a boiling point after the U.S. bombed key Iranian nuclear facilities on Saturday night, prompting widespread backlash and fears of a broader regional war.
Iran retaliated with long-range missile strikes on Israeli territory.
The international community is now on high alert, with the U.N. Security Council expected to convene an emergency session later today.
White House expected to release a formal response within hours.
Intelligence agencies are reportedly reviewing movement patterns related to Iran’s long-range missile and nuclear infrastructure.
Diplomatic analysts fear a new global nuclear arms race may be on the horizon.
