MOSCOW: Russian President Vladimir Putin has expressed deep condolences following the reported assassination of Iran’s Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Seyed Ali Khamenei, and members of his family. In a message addressed to Masoud Pezeshkian, President of the Islamic Republic of Iran, Putin described the killing as “a cynical violation of all norms of human morality and international law.”
According to a statement published on the official website of the Kremlin, Putin said Ayatollah Khamenei would be remembered in Russia as an exceptional statesman who made a significant personal contribution to strengthening friendly relations between Russia and Iran. He noted that bilateral ties between Moscow and Tehran were elevated to the level of a comprehensive strategic partnership during Khamenei’s leadership.
Putin also asked President Pezeshkian to convey his deepest sympathy and support to the Supreme Leader’s family, the Iranian government, and the Iranian people.
The condolence message was published on the Kremlin’s official portal.
