Tehran/Moscow, June 23, 2025 — Iran’s Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, has formally appealed for increased backing from President Vladimir Putin in the wake of the largest U.S. military strikes on Iranian nuclear sites since the 1979 revolution.⸻🛫 Diplomatic mission to Moscow • Khamenei dispatched Foreign Minister Abbas Araqchi to Moscow on Monday with a message for Putin, urging Russia to offer more robust assistance in confronting U.S. and Israeli aggression . • Iranian sources warned they are “not impressed” by Russia’s current level of support, signaling frustration over Moscow’s cautious stance . • Araqchi is expected to present a letter from Khamenei and coordinate a joint response amid the intensifying Middle East conflict .⸻⚖️ Putin’s balancing act • While Putin condemned recent Israeli attacks on Iran, he has not publicly commented on the U.S. strikes to date—even while offering to mediate talks between Tehran and Washington . • Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov affirmed that Putin will meet Araqchi but did not specify any firm commitments—underscoring Moscow’s desire to avoid direct confrontation with the U.S. .⸻🌍 Broader regional implications • The U.S. action—codenamed “Operation Midnight Hammer”—involved bunker-buster strikes on key nuclear facilities, significantly escalating tensions . • Iran, accusing Washington of breaching international law, has reiterated that all options are on the table, including threats to close the Strait of Hormuz and launch missiles toward U.S. targets . • Global leaders and institutions, including the U.N. Security Council, have called for restraint, while China and Russia pushed for urgent de-escalation and ceasefire measures .⸻🔍 What to watch next 1. Putin–Araqchi meeting outcome – Will Moscow commit to more active support or maintain a mediator role? 2. Iran’s response – Signals of military escalation, oil chokepoint threats, or diplomatic outreach are possible. 3. Global reaction – Key powers, especially China, the EU, and the U.N., may step up diplomatic pressure or propose resolutions.⸻📝 Bottom lineAyatollah Khamenei’s direct appeal to Putin marks a pivotal moment: Iran is urging Russia to shift from cautious diplomacy to more assertive backing. For Moscow, the decision could redefine its role in the current Middle Eastern crisis—either deepening its regional influence or risking confrontation with a nuclear-armed rival.⸻
