Russian President Vladimir Putin has firmly declined to comment on speculation surrounding any potential attempt by the United States or Israel to assassinate Iranian Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. The remarks came during a media briefing at the Saint Petersburg International Economic Forum, where Putin emphasized diplomacy over aggression. “I do not even want to discuss this possibility. I do not want to,” he said, rejecting a question on the matter.
Tensions between Israel and Iran continue to escalate, with Israeli strikes reportedly killing at least 585 people including 239 civilians since last Friday, according to a U.S.-based Iranian human rights group. Israel has intensified its operations against Iran’s top military and nuclear personnel, with Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu suggesting that the conflict may culminate in regime change.
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Despite such threats, Putin asserted that Iranian society remains resilient and unified. “There is a consolidation of society around the country’s political leadership,” he noted, acknowledging Iran s internal complexities yet emphasizing the nation’s cohesive stance under pressure.
Putin has positioned himself as a potential mediator in the conflict, although global leaders including U.S. President Donald Trump have remained unresponsive to Moscow’s diplomatic overtures, largely due to Russia’s strategic ties with Tehran. Trump previously stated that the U.S. is aware of Khamenei’s whereabouts but has no immediate plans to act, though he left the door open for future involvement.
Addressing concerns over Iran’s nuclear capabilities, Putin reiterated that Tehran’s program remains focused on civilian use and is being pursued underground despite the ongoing Israeli bombardment. “These underground factories, they exist, nothing has happened to them,” he said, downplaying Israeli attempts to disrupt nuclear infrastructure.
He also clarified that while Russia signed a strategic partnership with Iran in January, it has not yet delivered weapons. However, Russia continues its cooperation with Tehran on nuclear development, particularly at the Bushehr nuclear power plant, where over 200 Russian personnel are currently stationed. Putin assured that their safety has been guaranteed through coordination with Israeli leadership.
Pushing for de-escalation, Putin advocated for a balanced solution that would respect Iran’s right to peaceful nuclear energy while safeguarding Israel’s national security. “This is a delicate issue, and of course, we need to be very careful here, but in my opinion, a solution can be found,” he concluded, expressing cautious optimism in the face of rising geopolitical tensions.
