By Achile Danjuma
Russian President Vladimir Putin on Sunday condemned the killing of Iran’s Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, calling it a blatant violation of human moral principles and international law.
In an official statement, Putin praised the late Iranian leader as an “outstanding statesman” who played a pivotal role in elevating bilateral relations between Moscow and Tehran to the level of a comprehensive strategic partnership.
The Russian president extended his deepest condolences following the deaths of Khamenei and members of his family. He requested that his sincere sympathies be conveyed to the loved ones of the deceased, as well as to the government and the people of Iran.
Iranian state media reported on Sunday that Khamenei was killed in military strikes carried out by the U.S. and Israel the previous day. The reports have not been independently verified.