BREAKING: Putin (@KremlinRussia_E) congratulates @MojtabaKhamenei on becoming Iran’s supreme leader Russia’s President Putin (@KremlinRussia_E) congratulated Mojtaba Khamenei on becoming Iran’s supreme leader in a message published on the Kremlin’s official website. Putin reaffirmed Moscow’s “unwavering support and solidarity with Iranian friends,” adding that Russia would continue to stand as a “reliable partner.” He also noted that Khamenei will require “great courage and dedication” as Iran faces ongoing armed aggression. "I am confident that you will honourably continue your father’s work and unite the Iranian people in the face of this severe ordeal," he added.