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Iran’s Supreme Leader has sent a direct appeal to Russian President Vladimir Putin, seeking stronger backing as Tehran faces its most intense military pressure from the United States since the 1979 revolution.
Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araqchi arrived in Moscow on Monday to personally deliver a letter from Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, following a series of U.S. airstrikes on Iranian nuclear sites that dramatically escalated the region’s instability. The request underscores growing frustration in Tehran over what it views as Russia’s limited support so far.
While the Kremlin has condemned Israel’s role in the conflict and offered mediation, Putin has not publicly commented on the U.S. airstrikes, even as Washington and Tel Aviv hint at regime change and have openly discussed targeting Iran’s top leadership.
What Iran wants and what Russia might give
According to sources who spoke with Reuters, Tehran is seeking more than just words. Iranian officials want concrete assistance from Russia, though the nature of that help remains unclear. Despite a long-standing alliance and a recently signed 20-year strategic partnership, Russia has shown little appetite for open confrontation with the U.S., especially as it remains deeply engaged in its war in Ukraine.
Inside Russia, however, pressure is growing. Some voices are calling for Moscow to back Iran in the same way the U.S. has supported Ukraine, with advanced weapons, air defense systems, and intelligence sharing.
For now, Putin appears to be sticking to his role as mediator. The Kremlin confirmed the meeting with Araqchi but did not provide details. Araqchi, meanwhile, told Russian media that the two countries are “coordinating their positions” in light of the escalating conflict.
Russia pushes ceasefire, cites history
At the United Nations, Russia joined China and Pakistan in calling for an immediate and unconditional ceasefire in the region. Russia’s U.N. Ambassador, Vassily Nebenzia, took a swipe at U.S. foreign policy, recalling the 2003 invasion of Iraq and accusing Washington of pushing “fairy tales” once again.
Putin has also received assurances from Israel regarding the safety of Russian technicians currently working on Iran’s nuclear energy projects at Bushehr, indicating Russia is trying to maintain balance, supporting Iran, but not at the cost of direct confrontation.
*With information from Reuters
