Putin offers Russia help to end the Middle East conflict

During talks with Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian in Turkmenistan, Russian President Vladimir Putin has reiterated Moscow’s readiness to help resolve the current turmoil in the Middle East.

The two leaders arrived Thursday for a summit of the Commonwealth of Independent States, a grouping comprising many former Soviet countries. The gathering takes place amid increased geopolitical tensions between Russia and Western nations.

Russia was willing to make steps to help resolve the issue, Putin added. He also applauded Iran's efforts, as he put it, to end the crisis.

Relations between Russia and Iran have improved in recent years and both nations have expanded their diplomatic and military cooperation. Their links have attracted international notice amid the war in Ukraine and greater concerns in the Middle East.

Ukraine and Western countries have accused Iran of giving Russia with technology for the Shahed drones and short-range missiles. Russia has also been accused of helping Iran with intelligence that could help find targets tied to American operations in the region.

Iranian state media quoted Pezeshkian as saying Iran was interested in negotiations and desired a durable framework to settle the war. He also said he was concerned that fresh assaults could undercut diplomatic efforts.

The talks reflect ongoing diplomatic contact between Russia and Iran as attempts continue regionally and internationally to resolve the crisis.