Russian leader says Iranians are defending their sovereignty bravely as talks focus on war and regional tensions

By Sadiq Abdulfatah

Russian President Vladimir Putin praised the people of Iran, saying they are fighting bravely and heroically to defend their sovereignty. He made the remarks during a meeting with Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi in St. Petersburg on Monday.

Putin said he hopes Iran will overcome its current difficulties and that peace will soon return. He added that Russia is ready to take necessary steps to protect the interests of Iran and other countries in the region and help restore stability.

The Russian president said he recently received a written message from Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Mojtaba Khamenei. He also offered condolences over the deaths of former leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, senior commanders, officials, and civilians killed in recent US-Israeli attacks on Iran.

Putin added that Moscow is committed to strengthening relations with Tehran in all areas under the long-term strategic partnership agreement between the two countries.

Araghchi thanked Russia for its continued support, especially during what he described as an unprovoked war launched by the United States and Israel against Iran. He said ties between Tehran and Moscow will continue to grow stronger.

The Iranian minister said the Iranian people showed courage by resisting US attacks and that the world has seen Iran as a strong and stable country. He added that Iran has important friends and allies such as Russia.

Araghchi also criticised some countries for remaining silent over what he called US violations and bullying. He said diplomacy has been slowed by US demands, changing positions, threatening language, and repeated breaches of commitments.

Speaking after the meeting, Araghchi said the talks lasted about one and a half hours and covered bilateral ties, regional developments, and the US-Israeli war against Iran. He said both sides shared many useful ideas for future cooperation.

Regional tensions have remained high since the US-Israeli war against Iran began on February 28. Iran later responded with missile and drone strikes under Operation True Promise 4. A temporary ceasefire brokered by Pakistan began on April 8, but later talks in Islamabad failed to reach a final agreement.

Source: Press TV