Ukrainian Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha said he held a "frank conversation" with his Iranian counterpart, Abbas Araghchi, stressing that Kyiv seeks to avoid unnecessary escalation while defending itself against Russia's invasion.

Axar.az reports that Sybiha announced this on his X account.

"Diplomacy is about direct conversation, even when it's difficult. I stressed that our goal is to avoid unnecessary escalation," Sybiha wrote.

He said he reiterated that "all of Ukraine's actions are aimed solely at defending our country from Russian aggression and never intended to target civilian vessels or people."

Addressing Iran's statements regarding the death of one of its nationals and a civilian vessel damaged in a recent incident.

Sybiha said: "Our goal is to counter Russian aggression, which is the root cause of all incidents, and it is Russia who bears full responsibility for all provocations and casualties."

Sybiha also urged Tehran to avoid further escalation and halt its support for Moscow.

"I emphasised the necessity to refrain from any escalatory steps, as well as to end any support for Russia's war against Ukraine. This war is illegal, and it must end," he said.

He added that "Europe and the Middle East deserve stability, security, and peace."