Putin Condemns Khamenei’s Killing, Russia Warns of Regional Instability

Russian President Vladimir Putin has condemned the killing of Iranian Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei as a “cynical murder,” expressing condolences to Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian and highlighting the significant impact of this event on Russian-Iranian relations. The Kremlin’s response underscores Iran’s importance as a key strategic ally for Moscow, particularly amidst evolving geopolitical dynamics.

Putin’s Condolences and Khamenei’s Legacy

In a message released by the Kremlin, Putin offered his “deep condolences” following the death of Ayatollah Khamenei and members of his family. He stated that the killing was a violation of “all norms of human morality and international law.” Putin further emphasized Khamenei’s role as “an outstanding statesman” who significantly contributed to the development of the “friendly Russian-Iranian relations” and elevated them to a “comprehensive strategic partnership.” Reuters

Russian Foreign Ministry’s Strong Condemnation

Prior to Putin’s statement, the Russian Foreign Ministry had already strongly condemned the joint US-Israeli military operation in Iran, labeling it a “pre-planned and unprovoked act of armed aggression” against a sovereign nation. The ministry warned that this action was bringing the region closer to a “humanitarian, economic and, not exclude, a radiological catastrophe.” Indian Express

Moscow accused Washington and Tel Aviv of using concerns about Iran’s nuclear program as a pretext to “destroy the constitutional order and destroy the leadership of a state they do not like,” which has “refused to submit to forceful dictate and hegemonism.” The ministry called for an immediate return to “political and diplomatic settlement.”

Evacuation of Russian Citizens

In light of the escalating tensions, the Russian Foreign Ministry has urged its citizens in Iran and Israel to leave these countries immediately if possible. Recommended evacuation routes from Iran include travel through Azerbaijan and Armenia, while those in Israel are advised to depart via Egypt and Jordan. Russians remaining in the region have been advised to exercise caution, avoid crowded areas, and limit non-essential travel. Indian Express

Strategic Implications for Russia

The death of Ayatollah Khamenei represents a major strategic setback for Russia. Experts note that Iran has served as a crucial “castle” in the south of Russia, and a regime change or descent into chaos in Tehran could destabilize the Caucasus, Central Asia, and the Caspian Sea region – an area with a NATO military presence. Indian Express

The North-South transport corridor, which runs through Iran, has develop into a vital trade route for Russia under sanctions. Losing this key ally could lead to a transport blockade, as Western restrictions may be imposed on alternative routes through Turkey or the Bosporus. Existing projects between Russia and Iran, including investments in the oil and gas sector, the creation of a gas hub, and the construction of a new Russian nuclear power plant, are now in jeopardy. Indian Express

Analysts suggest that a regime change in Iran could result in a government distrustful or openly hostile towards Russia, given Moscow’s support for the previous regime and its provision of weapons used to suppress protests. Indian Express

Ayatollah Ali Khamenei died on February 28th following US and Israeli strikes on his residence, with the death officially confirmed by Tehran on March 1st, initiating a 40-day mourning period. Hindustan Times