Putin Condemns Killing of Iran’s Khamenei, Calls it ‘Cynical Murder’

Russian President Vladimir Putin has strongly condemned the killing of Iranian Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, describing the act as a “cynical murder” and a violation of both morality and international law. The condemnation comes amid heightened tensions following a joint U.S.-Israeli attack that eliminated Khamenei and other top Iranian leaders.

Close Ally of Iran

Russia and Iran maintain a close strategic partnership, particularly strengthened by Iran’s support for Russia’s military operations in Ukraine. In 2025, the two nations signed a strategic partnership agreement aimed at bolstering ties, including in the military sphere Fox News.

Kremlin’s Response

The Kremlin released a letter from Putin to Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian expressing “deepest condolences over the killing” of Khamenei. Putin stated the killing was a “cynical violation” of all norms of human morality and international law Fox News, Reuters.

Putin further emphasized that Khamenei would be remembered as an “outstanding statesman” who significantly contributed to the development of friendly Russian-Iranian relations, elevating them to a “comprehensive strategic partnership” Fox News.

He extended his sincere sympathy and support to Khamenei’s family, loved ones, the Iranian government, and the Iranian people.

International Reactions and Escalation

Russia had previously condemned the attack on Iran as a “dangerous adventure” with the potential to trigger a “catastrophe” in the region Fox News. Moscow’s top diplomat, Sergei Lavrov, spoke with his Iranian counterpart, Abbas Araghchi, at the initiative of the Iranian side, on the same day Fox News.

Following the killing of Khamenei, Iran has launched retaliatory strikes on Israel, and U.S. Assets in multiple countries, including Qatar, the United Arab Emirates, Kuwait, Bahrain, Jordan, Saudi Arabia, Iraq, and Oman Al Jazeera. The Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) has pledged revenge, claiming attacks on 27 bases housing U.S. Troops in the Middle East Al Jazeera.

Several countries in the region have closed their airspace amid the escalating exchange of attacks Al Jazeera. The Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) is holding an emergency meeting to discuss the crisis Al Jazeera.