Russian President Vladimir Putin has condemned the killing of Iranian Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, describing it as a “cynical” act that violates international law, while stopping short of announcing any concrete retaliatory measures or new support for Tehran beyond diplomatic sympathy.
In a message addressed to Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian, Putin expressed condolences to Khamenei’s family, the Iranian government and its people, the Kremlin said on Sunday.
He characterised the killing as a serious breach of international norms and reiterated Russia’s long-standing ties with Tehran.
Khamenei’s death marks the third loss of a Moscow-aligned leader in just over a year, following political upheavals in Syria and Venezuela.
Analysts say the development represents a setback for Russia’s geopolitical strategy in the Middle East, where it has sought to expand influence through military cooperation and strategic partnerships.
Moscow described the US-Israeli strikes that reportedly killed Khamenei as pushing the region towards deeper instability.
However, observers note that despite close coordination between Russia and Iran - including arms purchases and a 20-year strategic cooperation agreement signed last year - Russia has offered limited public backing beyond statements of support.
Putin and Khamenei maintained regular communication over the years, including direct meetings and discreet exchanges through envoys.
Russia’s leader previously visited Tehran shortly after the Ukraine war began in 2022, underscoring the importance of the partnership.
Although the strategic pact between Moscow and Tehran does not include a mutual defence clause, Russia has expressed opposition to Iran acquiring nuclear weapons, fearing regional escalation.
Some analysts suggest that if instability disrupts Gulf oil supplies, Russia could benefit economically from rising global energy prices, potentially strengthening its war-time revenues.
