Ukraine, Iran Discuss Steps To Prevent Further Tensions

NEW YORK: (News Desk) –  Ukrainian Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha said he discussed measures to prevent further escalation of tensions with his Iranian counterpart, Abbas Araqchi, during a meeting on the sidelines of the United Nations General Assembly in New York.

Sybiha said the meeting on Wednesday followed a telephone conversation between the two foreign ministers in July. He described direct dialogue as important even during difficult circumstances and said both sides agreed to keep existing communication channels open.

The Ukrainian foreign minister said their discussions focused on possible steps by both countries to prevent tensions from worsening. He also said they exchanged views on developments in the Middle East and Europe, as well as various ongoing peace efforts.

Sybiha reiterated Ukraine’s position in favour of restoring peace and stability in both regions as soon as possible.

Relations between Kyiv and Tehran have faced tensions over Iran’s alleged support for Russia during the war in Ukraine, including the use of Iranian-designed drones by Russian forces. Ukraine has developed capabilities to counter such drone threats and has offered assistance to Middle Eastern countries facing drone attacks.

The two ministers had also spoken in July following a Ukrainian drone strike on an Iranian vessel that killed one sailor and injured another. Iran condemned the incident and threatened retaliation, while Sybiha urged Araqchi at the time to avoid further escalation and called for an end to Iranian support for Russia’s war against Ukraine.

The latest meeting comes as both diplomats attend the 81st UN General Assembly in New York, amid broader international efforts to address conflicts and regional tensions.