Russia Prepared to Support Peace Efforts in Iran, Says Putin

Moscow is prepared to offer full cooperation to Tehran to bring an end to the conflict in Iran. Russian President Vladimir Putin gave this assurance during a meeting with Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian, stating that Russia is ready to do everything within its capacity to assist Iran in resolving the ongoing hostilities.
The bilateral talks took place on Thursday (October 8) in Turkmenistan, where both leaders were attending the Commonwealth of Independent States (CIS) summit. The summit officially opens in the Caspian resort town of Avaza on Friday (October 9).

Reiterating Russia’s commitment, Putin noted that Iran has been pursuing sincere efforts to end the conflict since the onset of US and Israeli strikes on February 28.

Putin highlighted the positive trajectory of Russia-Iran relations. Since the launch of Russia’s military operation in Ukraine in February 2022, the two nations have strengthened diplomatic, military, and economic ties amid ongoing Western sanctions against both countries.

This meeting follows their previous in-person encounter at the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) summit in Kyrgyzstan last September. According to Iranian state media, Putin had also expressed willingness to assist in mediation efforts during a phone call between the two leaders on Wednesday.

Ukraine and Western allies have accused Iran of supplying Shahed drones and short-range missiles to Moscow for use in the Ukraine conflict. Conversely, Russia has been accused of providing targeting intelligence to Iran against US interests in the Middle East. All parties involved maintain differing positions on these allegations.
Meanwhile, diplomatic talks between Tehran and Washington remain stalled. President Pezeshkian expressed frustration earlier this week, characterizing dialogue with the US as “meaningless.” In this context, Mr. Putin’s assurance underscores Russia’s potential role in future diplomatic resolutions. (Source: AFP)