Russian President Vladimir Putin has assured Iran that Moscow is ready to make every possible effort to end the ongoing war with the United States, according to Iranian security chief Mohsen Rezaei, who
met the Russian leader at the Kremlin on Thursday.
Rezaei said Putin had also condemned attacks on Iran’s nuclear facilities and called the conflict as unjust.
“Mr Putin said he will do everything he can to help bring the war to an end,” Rezaei said, according to Iranian broadcaster Press TV.
The Iranian official also delivered a message from Supreme Leader Ayatollah Mojtaba Khamenei to Putin. In return, the Russian President sent his “warm and cordial greetings” to the Iranian leader.
What Was Discussed At The Kremlin?
Speaking after the meeting, Rezaei said the two leaders discussed regional developments, post-war arrangements and future security plans.
“Consultations were held with Mr. Putin regarding important regional issues, and significant discussions were raised in connection with the post-war period and regional security arrangements,” he said.
Energy cooperation was also on the agenda, particularly a proposed gas pipeline linking Russia and Iran.
Rezaei said the project could help Iran deal with domestic gas shortages while allowing Russia to supply gas to neighbouring countries.
Iran Sets Conditions For Peace Talks
The meeting comes amid diplomatic efforts to end the conflict between Washington and Tehran. Negotiations have focused on the future status of the Strait of Hormuz, the US blockade of Iranian ports, sanctions and Iran’s nuclear programme.
However, Tehran has indicated that a breakthrough remains difficult.
Even during his meeting with the Russian president, Rezaei said he told Putin that Iran had presented seven conditions to the US and would not agree to reopen the Strait of Hormuz or resume negotiations until they were met.
“However, we have told him [Putin] that on the issue of diplomacy, we have announced seven conditions to the Americans, as long as they do not execute our seven conditions we will neither open the Strait of Hormuz nor have negotiations,” Rezaei added.
Meanwhile, Khamenei said in a written statement on Wednesday that Iran should show “not even the slightest inclination towards submission” to the United States.
(With inputs from agencies)
