Viacheslav Matuzov

Al Jazeera Mubasher | Source published 21 March 2026 | Interview overview

What the programme discusses

This Moscow interview addresses attacks on Iranian nuclear facilities, the danger of wider escalation, and Russia's options for influencing the crisis.

Questions addressed

• Why do strikes on nuclear facilities concern Russia?
• What is known about Russian military support for Iran?
• Could Moscow trade concessions on Iran for concessions on Ukraine?

Matuzov's position

Matuzov emphasizes environmental risks across borders and the presence of Russian specialists at Bushehr. He argues that regional stability is a long-term Russian security interest and favours diplomacy that protects civilian and nuclear infrastructure.

On reports of military assistance, he says he finds them plausible as an analytical judgment, while acknowledging the absence of official confirmation. This distinction matters: the interview does not establish those reports as verified facts.

He rejects an Iran-for-Ukraine bargain and the proposition that a prolonged American conflict in Iran would benefit Russia. He instead highlights Moscow's contacts with Iran, Gulf states and Washington as potential channels for mediation, alongside China's regional diplomacy.

Editorial summary of the broadcaster's report, not a verbatim transcript. Questions are paraphrased; assessments remain attributed to Matuzov.

Original Arabic interview page: video and broadcaster's report