Russian President Vladimir Putin pledged support for Iran and opposition to US sanctions during a summit on September 1, 2026, aimed at countering US global influence. Putin stated that Russia is working to assist Tehran in its conflict with the US and highlighted the provision of essential goods to Iran. He made these comments at the Shanghai Cooperation Organization summit in Kyrgyzstan, as reported by The Washington Post.
Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian criticized the sanctions imposed on Iran, comparing them to those placed on Russia following its invasion of Ukraine. He urged cooperation between the two nations to challenge these penalties, asserting, "They do not have the right to impose sanctions whenever they please, violate international law, and then commit acts of aggression." Pezeshkian expressed confidence that their collaboration could counter US unilateralism and the sanctions.
Russia has been providing support to Iran during its conflict with the US, including satellite targeting assistance for Iranian retaliatory attacks on military bases in the Middle East. Additionally, Moscow has faced accusations of supplying Iran with parts for drones, missiles, and explosives, while Iran previously provided Russia with Shahed suicide drones used in the Ukraine conflict.
The remarks followed US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent's statement about intensifying sanctions against Iran until a deal is reached with the US. Bessent indicated plans to target offshore bank accounts and luxury properties linked to Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps, including a reported $130 million real estate portfolio owned by Supreme Leader Mojtaba Khamenei.
Pezeshkian also mentioned Iran's willingness to return to negotiations with the US, stating that Iran would take reciprocal action if the US agreed to the terms of a previous memorandum of understanding from June.