Iran’s military chief said on Wednesday that the Armed Forces are prepared more than any other time to defend the country against foreign threats, asserting that Iran doesn’t need anyone’s “smile” or go-ahead with its plans to boost defense power.

Russian Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Maria Zakharova said on Wednesday the U.S. has put forward totally unacceptable demands to Iran, criticizing the U.S. government for its policy of “ultimatums” and “threats” towards Iran.

President Hassan Rouhani will visit China within weeks upon an official invitation by his Chinese counterpart Xi Jinping, presidential chief of staff Mahmoud Vaezi said on Wednesday. Talking to reporters after a cabinet meeting, Vaezi said Rouhani will visit China to attend the Shanghai Cooperation Organization summit.