World

Putin Condemns Killing of Iran’s Supreme Leader, Calls It a ‘Cynical Assassination

Russian President Vladimir Putin has expressed condolences to Iran following the death of Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, who was reportedly killed during U.S.-Israeli military strikes on Iranian territory.

In a message addressed to Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian, Putin described the killing as a “cynical assassination” that violated international norms and basic human morality. The statement was published by the Kremlin on Sunday.

“Please accept my deepest condolences over the assassination of the Supreme Leader of the Islamic Republic of Iran,” Putin wrote. “This act represents a cynical violation of all principles of international law and human morality.”

Russia Praises Khamenei’s Role in Relations

Putin also highlighted Khamenei’s role in strengthening ties between Moscow and Tehran, describing him as a significant political figure in international affairs.

“In our country, Ayatollah Khamenei will be remembered as an outstanding statesman who made a major contribution to developing friendly relations between Russia and Iran,” Putin said.

The statement came shortly after Iranian state television confirmed Khamenei’s death and reported that Iran had launched new retaliatory strikes while Israel continued attacks on targets in Tehran.

Moscow Condemns Political Assassinations

Russia’s Foreign Ministry also reacted strongly to the news, saying the killing of Khamenei and other senior Iranian officials had been received in Moscow with “outrage and deep regret.”

In an official statement, the ministry condemned what it described as the practice of political assassinations and targeting leaders of sovereign states.

“Russia consistently condemns the hunting of leaders of sovereign states and political assassinations,” the statement said.

Moscow also urged an immediate reduction in hostilities and called on all sides to return to diplomatic negotiations.

Warnings of Wider Escalation

Russian officials have warned that the U.S.-Israeli strikes could dangerously escalate tensions across the Middle East and even trigger a nuclear crisis.

Russia’s ambassador to the United Nations, Vasily Nebenzya, criticized the strikes during an emergency session of the UN Security Council, calling them a betrayal of diplomatic efforts.

“This is a genuine betrayal of diplomacy,” Nebenzya said.

He rejected Western claims that Iran was pursuing nuclear weapons and argued that Tehran had been willing to engage in negotiations before the attacks.

“Despite its readiness for dialogue, Tehran has once again been stabbed in the back,” he added.

Growing Global Tensions

The death of Iran’s supreme leader marks a major turning point in the escalating confrontation between Iran, Israel, and the United States.

Analysts warn that the situation could significantly destabilize the Middle East, raising fears of a wider regional conflict as military actions and retaliatory strikes continue.