WANA (Apr 27) – In a diplomatic meeting on Monday, Russian President Vladimir Putin hosted Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi, signaling a deepening of the Moscow-Tehran axis amidst shifting regional dynamics.

 

The talks, held at the Boris Yeltsin Presidential Library, underscored a mutual commitment to strategic cooperation and defiance against Western pressure.

 

A Message from Tehran

The summit opened with President Putin acknowledging a personal message received last week from the new Supreme Leader of the Islamic Revolution, Ayatollah Seyed Mojtaba Khamenei.

 

“I ask you to convey my most sincere gratitude for the message from the Supreme Leader,” Putin stated. He reaffirmed that Russia’s intent remains unchanged: a full commitment to a long-term strategic partnership with Iran. Putin also extended his personal wishes for the health and success of the new Leader.

 

Pledges for Regional Stability

Addressing the challenges facing Iran, Putin expressed confidence that under its new leadership, the Iranian people would navigate this “difficult period” by relying on their “courage and desire for independence.”

 

Putin emphasized Russia’s role in the region, stating, “On our part, we will do everything in your interest and the interest of all people in the region to achieve peace as quickly as possible.”

 

Araghchi: “Russia is a Great Ally”

Foreign Minister Araghchi, who is currently on a regional tour, conveyed warm greetings from both the Supreme Leader and President Masoud Pezeshkian. He specifically thanked the Russian leader for Moscow’s unwavering support following recent military actions by the U.S. and the Israeli regime against Iranian soil.

 

“The world has witnessed Iran’s true power in the face of American aggression,” Araghchi noted. “It is clear that the Islamic Republic is a stable, solid, and powerful system.”

 

The Foreign Minister also extended special thanks to Putin for his condolences regarding the martyrdom of the late leader, Ayatollah Seyed Ali Khamenei, and for his swift recognition of the new Supreme Leader.

 

High-Level Delegations

The importance of the negotiations was reflected in the high-ranking officials present:

 

Russian Side: Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov, Military Intelligence (GRU) Chief Igor Kostyukov, and Foreign Policy Aide Yuri Ushakov.

 

Iranian Side: Deputy Foreign Minister Kazem Gharibabadi and Ambassador Kazem Jalali.

 

Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov highlighted the urgency of the meeting, noting that given the “evolving situation” in the Middle East, the significance of these talks is “undeniable.”

 

Seyed Abbas Araghchi, Iran’s Minister of Foreign Affairs arrived in St. Petersburg early this morning (Monday) as part of a regional tour following visits to Pakistan and Oman to meet with senior Russian officials—met and held discussions with President Vladimir Putin this afternoon.

 

Upon his arrival in St. Petersburg earlier today, Araghchi stated regarding the visit: “We have always had close consultations with Russia and have held extensive deliberations on regional and bilateral issues. For a while, due to the ‘Ramadan Imposed War,’ there was a gap in meetings. I utilized this opportunity that arose, and following my trips to Pakistan and Oman, this visit to Russia was also arranged.”

 

He further noted: “It is an appropriate opportunity to consult with our Russian friends regarding developments related to the war during this period and the current situation, and to review the latest status; it will be important that necessary coordinations are also made in this regard.”

Araghchi Meets with Putin on Apr 27, 2026. Social media/ WANA News Agency

Araghchi Meets with Putin on Apr 27, 2026. Social media/ WANA News Agency