MOSCOW, May 21 (KUNA) -- Russia warned on Monday the US from pressuring Iran more because it would push it toward radicalism.
Washington threats regarding "the strongest sanctions in history" against Iran," will push Iran to adopt more radical approach in solving regional problems, Russian news agency (Interfax) quoted the President of Asia Administration Affairs in Russian Foreign Ministry, Zamir Kabulov, as saying.
Kabulov added more US pressure on Iran will only increase tension in the region and Iran will respond accordingly.
Earlier, US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo threatened "the strongest sanctions in history" against Iran if it doesn't change course, and issued a list of demands he wants to be included in a new nuclear treaty with Tehran.
"This is just the beginning. The sting of sanctions will be painful," Pompeo said before the conservative Heritage Foundation.
"These will be the strongest sanctions in history when complete," Pompeo said.
A week ago, President Donald Trump pulled out of the nuclear deal created under President Barack Obama. Sanctions that had been lifted due to the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA) are scheduled to go back into effect.
"Sanctions are going back in full effect, and new ones are coming," he highlighted.
Under a new nuclear treaty, the secretary pressed that he would like Iran to stop developing ballistic missiles, release Americans held as prisoners in the country, stop support of terrorist groups, and ban heavy-water reactors.
In return, the secretary said that if Iran makes "major changes" the US would be willing to lift all sanctions, restore full diplomatic ties with Tehran, and support modernizing its economy. (end) as.mb