Putin pledges support to Iran, but offers little detail

Russian President Vladimir Putin assured Iran of his support, describing Moscow as a ‘loyal and reliable’ ally of Tehran. In a message marking the Nowruz holiday, he wished the Iranian people strength in coping with the current difficulties.

At the same time, the extent of Russian assistance remains unclear. Some Iranian sources suggest that practical support is limited, despite what is described as one of the most serious crises since 1979.

Russia has criticised US and Israeli strikes on Iran, which Moscow says have destabilised the Middle East and contributed to the global energy crisis. Putin also condemned the killing of Ayatollah Ali Khamenei.

There have also been reports of a draft compromise between Moscow and Washington on intelligence-sharing, but the Kremlin has dismissed them as false.

Although Russia is developing a strategic partnership with Iran, it has no commitment to mutual defence.

Moscow has also repeatedly stressed that it does not want Iran to acquire a nuclear weapon, warning that this could further escalate tensions in the region.

(reuters, pir)