SMF - Just Installed!
Posted by Fatai Muiz
- Mar 22, 2026, 09:13 AMMOSCOW, March 21 (Reuters) – Russian President Vladimir Putin congratulated Iran's leaders on Nowruz, the Iranian New Year, and emphasized that Russia remains a loyal friend and trusted partner of Tehran. His message highlighted Moscow's commitment to maintaining strong ties with Iran during challenging times.
Putin specifically sent his greetings to Iran's Supreme Leader Mojtaba Khamenei and President Masoud Pezeshkian, wishing the Iranian people strength and resilience amid global uncertainties. The gesture underlined Russia's ongoing diplomatic support for Tehran's leadership and people.
The Russian president also expressed concern over recent U.S. and Israeli attacks on Iran, stating they have escalated tensions in the Middle East and raised global energy concerns. He described the killing of Iran's Supreme Leader as a cynical act, stressing the need for stability in the region.
Reports surfaced suggesting Moscow might halt intelligence sharing with Iran in exchange for the U.S. reducing support to Ukraine. However, the Kremlin quickly dismissed these claims as false, reaffirming that Russia and Iran continue to cooperate independently of such arrangements.
Despite the close partnership, the Russia–Iran strategic relationship does not include a mutual defence pact. Putin has repeatedly emphasized that Russia does not support Iran developing nuclear weapons, citing concerns over a potential regional arms race in the Middle East.
Overall, Putin's message on Nowruz reinforced Russia's position as a steadfast partner to Iran, signaling continued collaboration on political and economic matters while maintaining caution on sensitive military issues. The announcement further highlights Moscow's careful balancing act in regional diplomacy.
Source:
Putin specifically sent his greetings to Iran's Supreme Leader Mojtaba Khamenei and President Masoud Pezeshkian, wishing the Iranian people strength and resilience amid global uncertainties. The gesture underlined Russia's ongoing diplomatic support for Tehran's leadership and people.
The Russian president also expressed concern over recent U.S. and Israeli attacks on Iran, stating they have escalated tensions in the Middle East and raised global energy concerns. He described the killing of Iran's Supreme Leader as a cynical act, stressing the need for stability in the region.
Reports surfaced suggesting Moscow might halt intelligence sharing with Iran in exchange for the U.S. reducing support to Ukraine. However, the Kremlin quickly dismissed these claims as false, reaffirming that Russia and Iran continue to cooperate independently of such arrangements.
Despite the close partnership, the Russia–Iran strategic relationship does not include a mutual defence pact. Putin has repeatedly emphasized that Russia does not support Iran developing nuclear weapons, citing concerns over a potential regional arms race in the Middle East.
Overall, Putin's message on Nowruz reinforced Russia's position as a steadfast partner to Iran, signaling continued collaboration on political and economic matters while maintaining caution on sensitive military issues. The announcement further highlights Moscow's careful balancing act in regional diplomacy.
Source: