Trump Warns Russia, China Against Arming Iran, Cites Assurances From Xi, Putin

United States President Donald Trump has warned Russia and China against supplying weapons to Iran, saying any such move woulTd be against their interests, while expressing confidence in assurances from Presidents Xi Jinping and Vladimir Putin that neither country is currently arming Tehran.

Trump made the remarks on Friday in a post on his Truth Social platform amid heightened tensions in the Middle East and reports that Washington is examining whether Moscow or Beijing has provided Iran with intelligence or military support following recent attacks on US military bases.

"Therefore, two major Countries that people speak of often in terms of Iran are, in my opinion, not participating," Trump wrote.

"If they did, it would be very bad for them, certainly not in their best interests."

The US president said Chinese President Xi Jinping assured him during their meeting in Beijing in May that China would not supply weapons to Iran under any circumstances.

"Considering our relationship, I take him at his word," Trump said.

He added that Russian President Vladimir Putin had also given similar assurances despite the ongoing war in Ukraine.

According to Trump, Putin understands the distinction between US military support for NATO allies and direct arms transfers to Ukraine.

"He understands that I do not sell Weapons to Ukraine, but to NATO Countries. They pay full price, and how those Weapons are distributed, I have no idea," Trump wrote.

Trump's comments came amid reports that US authorities are investigating whether Russia or China has provided Iran with targeting information or other forms of assistance following recent strikes on American military installations in the region.

The US administration has not publicly confirmed any findings from the reported investigation.

The latest remarks underscore Washington's concerns about the possibility of broader international involvement in the Middle East conflict.

Trump has repeatedly adopted a conciliatory tone toward both Xi and Putin, arguing that the leaders of major world powers should be treated with respect even when the United States has strategic disagreements with their governments.

His latest comments suggest he believes both leaders will honour their commitments to avoid supplying weapons to Iran, while warning that any departure from those assurances would carry significant consequences.

AFP