Before touching down at Pulkovo Airport, Araghchi concluded what he described as a "very productive" visit to Pakistan. Islamabad has emerged as a primary mediator between Tehran and Washington as they attempt to navigate a path toward ending current hostilities.
Araghchi met with Pakistan’s Army Chief, Field Marshal Asim Munir, and Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif.
Reports indicate that Iran transmitted "written messages" regarding its "red lines"—specifically concerning nuclear issues and the security of the Strait of Hormuz—to be conveyed to U.S. negotiators.
The diplomatic momentum faced a setback on Saturday when U.S. President Donald Trump abruptly canceled a planned mission to Islamabad by envoys Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner, claiming Washington holds the leverage in the negotiations.
Upon his arrival in Russia, Araghchi shifted focus to Iran’s most powerful ally. President Putin welcomed the minister, praising the "courage and heroism" of the Iranian people and reaffirming Moscow’s commitment to Middle East peace.
"Russia is ready to do everything in its power to ensure that peace in the Middle East is achieved as soon as possible," Putin stated during the meeting, which was also attended by Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov and military intelligence chief Igor Kostyukov.
Araghchi thanked the Russian leader for his "firm and unshaken" support, describing the relationship as a "strategic partnership at the highest level" that remains steadfast regardless of international pressure.
The flurry of diplomacy follows the failed first round of peace talks between Iran and the U.S. on April 11-12. With the Strait of Hormuz effectively closed and the "US-Israeli war against Iran" (as termed by Tehran) continuing to disrupt global energy markets, the pressure for a breakthrough is immense.
By visiting Oman (to discuss maritime security) and Pakistan (for mediation) before heading to Russia (for strategic backing), Araghchi is attempting to solidify a regional and international front before any potential resumption of direct talks with the Trump administration.
