Russian President Vladimir Putin has congratulated Mojtaba Khamenei on becoming Iran’s new supreme leader, reaffirming Moscow’s support for Tehran and its commitment to maintaining close ties with the Islamic Republic.
The Kremlin said Monday that Putin sent a telegram to Mojtaba Khamenei following his appointment, expressing confidence in his leadership at a time when Iran is facing significant regional and geopolitical challenges.
In the message, Putin said the responsibilities of the position would require “great courage and dedication” and voiced confidence that the new leader would continue the work of his father while guiding the Iranian people through difficult circumstances.
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The Russian president also reiterated Moscow’s support for Tehran, stating that Russia would remain a reliable partner of Iran.
Kremlin reiterates partnership with Tehran
According to the Kremlin statement, Putin emphasized Russia’s continued solidarity with Iran and expressed hope that bilateral relations between the two countries would remain strong.
He also wished Mojtaba Khamenei success in addressing the challenges ahead and expressed hopes for his health and strength as he assumes the role.
Russia and Iran maintain strategic cooperation in several areas, including regional security, energy and diplomatic coordination on international issues.
Leadership change in Iran
Mojtaba Khamenei, 56, has become the third supreme leader in the history of the Islamic Republic of Iran.
Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian described the appointment as a step toward strengthening national unity in the country.
The position had previously been held by Ayatollah Ali Khamenei for 37 years. Iranian authorities said he died at the age of 86 after a joint United States–Israel airstrike struck his residence in Tehran on Feb. 28.
The leadership transition comes during a period of heightened tensions in the region and ongoing international attention on Iran’s political and security developments.
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