Russian President Vladimir Putin said yesterday in Teheran no Caspian Sea state should let its soil be used to attack a fellow coastal country, in an apparent response to talk in the West about military strikes on Iran.

The Islamic Republic is embroiled in a nuclear standoff with Western nations which accuse Teheran of seeking atomic weapons, a charge Teheran denies. Washington has refused to rule out the use of military action if diplomacy fails to resolve the row.

Putin's remarks appeared directed at Azerbaijan. Russian media have speculated Washington might be trying to negotiate with Azerbaijan on the right to use military facilities in the Caucasus republic.