ST. PETERSBURG – Russian President Vladimir Putin met with Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi here on April 27, reaffirming Moscow’s dedication to safeguarding Iranian interests while actively working to stabilize the Middle East. Local media reported the Kremlin’s firm stance on collaborating with Iran for peace.
Speaking to TASS news agency, Putin stated, ‘We will do everything on our side for your benefit and that of all people in the region, so that peace is established as soon as possible.’ He lauded Iran’s resilience, calling their fight for sovereignty a display of ‘courage and bravery,’ and voiced hope for a peaceful resolution soon.
Araghchi, fresh from Oman, extended best wishes from Supreme Leader Mojtaba Khamenei and President Masoud Pezeshkian. He credited Iranian determination for withstanding U.S. attacks and expressed profound gratitude to Putin and Russia for complete support. The duo’s relationship, he noted, is a ‘strategic partnership at the highest level’ that nothing can break.
Earlier, Araghchi was received by Russian officials and Iran’s Ambassador Kazem Jalali upon arrival. Jalali described the visit as integral to ongoing close dialogues, given shared perspectives on global matters. He revealed three presidential phone calls since February 28 conflict onset.
This engagement occurs against a backdrop of U.S.-Iran tensions: a temporary two-week ceasefire from April 8 collapsed after 21-hour talks on April 11-12 yielded no agreement. As Russia bolsters its alliance with Iran, analysts predict shifts in regional power balances, influencing oil prices, alliances, and peace negotiations. Putin’s proactive role could prove pivotal in de-escalating the crisis.
