Russian President Vladimir Putin sent greetings to Ayatollah Seyyed Mojtaba Hosseini Khamenei on his election as the new Supreme Leader of the Iran. The respective message was posted on the Kremlin website.

"Today, as Iran is opposing an armed aggression, your work in this high post will certainly require immense courage and selflessness. I am confident that you will continue your father’s work with honour and consolidate the Iranian people in the face of harsh ordeals.

On my part, I want to confirm our unwavering support of Tehran and our solidarity with our Iranian friends. Russia has been and will remain the Islamic Republic’s reliable partner," the message reads, in part.