Putin Expresses Support for Iran Amid Growing Bilateral Relationship

<p>The relationship between Iran and Russia is strengthening, with both countries expressing mutual support, according to an expert interviewed by Fox News Digital on September 2, 2026. Russian President Vladimir Putin showed support for Iran during a meeting with Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian at the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) Summit in Kyrgyzstan, stating, "Russia is standing in full solidarity with the people of Iran," as reported by the Kremlin.</p><p>Putin further remarked, "We admire your courage and resilience in your fight for your national interests," and conveyed his regards to Supreme Leader Mojtaba Hosseini Khamenei.</p><p>Retired U.S. Air Force General Philip Breedlove, a former NATO commander, noted that the relationship between Iran and Russia is growing, stating, "they both need each other desperately." He explained that both countries are facing economic challenges and require each other's assistance. Breedlove highlighted that Russia relies on Iran for missile production due to disruptions caused by the conflict in Ukraine, while Iran seeks Russian intelligence support for its operations in the Middle East.</p><p>Brodsky, the policy director of United Against Nuclear Iran (UANI), described the partnership as strategically important, with Russia using Iran as leverage against the United States. He emphasized that Iran views Russia as a crucial ally for military and economic support, particularly in the context of the U.N. Security Council.</p><p>Breedlove commented on the ongoing U.S. conflict with Iran, suggesting it has become a test of will rather than a military confrontation. He noted that the U.S. maintains air and sea dominance but that Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) believes it can survive without a decisive victory, as it can continue to threaten key maritime routes.</p><p>Brodsky expressed skepticism about a diplomatic resolution to the U.S.-Iran conflict as long as the current Iranian regime remains in power, citing its fundamentally anti-American stance.</p><p>During the meeting, Pezeshkian thanked Putin for his support during the war and U.S. sanctions, stating, "Our relations are of a strategic nature. This is more than just ‘normal’ relations." He asserted that their partnership enables them to resist U.S. sanctions.</p><p>Breedlove remarked that the West must reassess its approach to Russia, noting that past efforts to integrate Russia into the Western sphere have failed. He emphasized that Putin's actions indicate a desire for influence over Western Asia and Europe, and that the West must respond decisively to his strategies.</p>