Russian President Vladimir Putin is set to meet with Iran’s President Masoud Pezeshkian on Friday for talks during a forum in Turkmenistan, according to a senior aide.
Yury Ushakov, Putin’s foreign policy aide, informed journalists that the two leaders will meet in Ashgabat while attending an event commemorating an 18th-century Turkmen poet.
“This meeting is significant not only for addressing bilateral matters but also for discussing the sharply escalating situation in the Middle East,” Ushakov said.
Central Asian leaders are gathering to celebrate the 300th anniversary of the birth of the poet Magtymguly Pyragy.
Putin’s attendance at the event had not been previously disclosed. The meeting follows Russian Prime Minister Mikhail Mishustin’s visit to Iran last week, where he held talks with President Pezeshkian and First Vice President Mohammad Reza Aref.
The discussions come amid escalating tensions in the Middle East, with Israel intensifying airstrikes on Lebanon, targeting Iran-backed Hezbollah, and Russia evacuating some of its citizens.
Russia maintains close ties with Iran, though Western nations have accused Tehran of supplying Moscow with drones and missiles—allegations Iran has consistently denied.
Later this month, Pezeshkian is also expected to visit Russia for further talks with Putin during a BRICS summit of emerging economies.
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