Vladimir Putin, the president of Russia, extended condolences to Masoud Pezeshkian, the president of Iran, following heavy civilian casualties that occurred during what Moscow described as armed aggression by Israel and the United States against Iran. According to a statement released by the Kremlin, the Russian leader also urged an immediate halt to ongoing hostilities and called for diplomatic efforts to resolve the crisis.
During a phone conversation held late on Friday, Putin expressed deep sorrow over the deaths caused by the conflict. He specifically conveyed condolences over the reported killing of Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, Iran’s Supreme Leader, along with members of his family, several Iranian political and military officials, and many civilians who lost their lives in the violence. The Kremlin described the situation as deeply tragic and emphasized the need to prevent further escalation in the region.
Putin reiterated Russia’s consistent position that military force should not be used to address disputes involving Iran or broader tensions in the Middle East. He stressed that the priority should be an immediate ceasefire and a return to diplomatic dialogue aimed at peacefully resolving the crisis. According to the Kremlin statement, Russia continues to advocate negotiations and political solutions rather than armed confrontation.
The Russian president also noted that he has remained in close contact with leaders from countries belonging to the Gulf Cooperation Council. These discussions are part of ongoing diplomatic efforts to monitor developments and coordinate responses to the escalating conflict in the region.
During the call, Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian thanked Russia for its support and solidarity with the Iranian people during a difficult period. He reportedly briefed Putin in detail about the latest developments on the ground and the recent phase of the conflict, while emphasizing Iran’s determination to defend its sovereignty and national independence.
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