Russian President Vladimir Putin has sent condolences to Iran following the killing of Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei, describing the attack as a “cynical” act that violates fundamental norms of morality and international law.
In a letter addressed to his Iranian counterpart, Masoud Pezeshkian, Putin expressed “deep condolences” over what he called the killing of Khamenei and members of his family.
“Please accept my deepest condolences over the murder of the Supreme Leader of the Islamic Republic of Iran, Seyyed Ali Khamenei, and his family members, committed in cynical violation of all norms of human morality and international law,” the letter states.
A day earlier, Russia condemned the US and Israeli attacks on Iran, calling them an “irresponsible step.”
In a statement, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Russian Federation said the strikes were being carried out “under the cover of a renewed negotiation process,” referring to ongoing US–Iran nuclear talks.
Russian officials suggested that the attacks could derail diplomatic efforts, adding that the continuation of negotiations now appears unlikely following the escalation.
The developments further deepen geopolitical tensions as global powers react to the rapidly unfolding crisis in the Middle East.
Image: Meeting of Ayatollah Ali Khamenei with Vladimir Putin in Tehran. November 1, 2017 (archive).
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