Russian President Vladimir Putin hosted Iran's top diplomat in Saint Petersburg, praising the Iranian people for what he described as their courageous resistance to pressure from the United States and Israel. He said Russia would continue to support Tehran and do everything possible to help secure peace and stability in the region during what he called a difficult period.

Moscow has condemned recent strikes by the United States and Israel and has offered to mediate in an effort to calm tensions. Russia has also proposed storing Iran's enriched uranium as a way to reduce friction, though the idea was rejected by Washington. Kremlin officials stressed that renewed military action would not serve the interests of any party and urged continued negotiations.

Putin said he had received a message from Iran's new Supreme Leader, Mojtaba Khamenei, and reaffirmed Russia's commitment to a long-term strategic partnership agreement signed last year. The two countries continue to cooperate on nuclear energy projects and military supplies, with Iran thanking Russia for standing by it during a period of heightened pressure.