Russia: The US is looking for a pretext to increase pressure on Iran.

Ryabkov pointed out that Washington's exploitation of the Iran nuclear deal, known as the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA), to exert pressure is inconsistent with the status of a great power.

Russian Deputy Foreign Minister Sergei Ryabkov. Photo: AP

The Russian Deputy Foreign Minister stated that, according to Russian observations, the US is seeking pretexts to increase pressure on Iran for reasons completely unrelated to the JCPOA.

Ryabkov likened this action by the US to "robbing someone and then shouting for help." He stated that Moscow considers any unilateral sanctions illegal.

Ryabkov made the statement after the US expanded its list of sanctions related to Iran. Five Iranian companies were sanctioned for their "involvement in the country's missile program." In addition, US Treasury Secretary Stephen Mnuchin said the US "will continue to resolutely oppose the extremely harmful actions of the Iranian regime, including adding sanctions for human rights violations."

Earlier, on January 4th, Ryabkov also warned Washington against interfering in Iran's internal affairs.