Mazaj News (Web Desk) Russian President Vladimir Putin held discussions with Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi in St. Petersburg on Monday, expressing hope that the Iranian people would overcome what he called a “challenging period” and that stability and peace would be restored soon.
Russia has positioned itself as a potential mediator in efforts to ease tensions in the Middle East following recent US and Israeli strikes on Iran, actions that Moscow has strongly criticized. It has also repeatedly suggested that Iran’s enriched uranium could be stored in Russia as a confidence-building measure, though this proposal has not been accepted by Washington.
During the meeting, Putin stated, “We will do everything possible that serves your interests and those of the region’s peoples, so that peace can be achieved as quickly as possible,” according to Russian state media.
He also noted that he had recently received a message from Iran’s Supreme Leader and asked Araghchi to convey his gratitude, reaffirming Moscow’s commitment to continuing its “strategic partnership” with Tehran.
Iran and Russia signed a 20-year strategic cooperation agreement last year. The two countries have expanded ties, with Russia constructing additional nuclear reactors at Iran’s Bushehr facility, while Iran has supplied Shahed drones that have been used in Russia’s military operations in Ukraine.
Araghchi, in response, emphasized that relations between Tehran and Moscow would continue to grow stronger and expressed appreciation for Russia’s support, according to the RIA news agency.