Russia Affirms 'Loyal Friend' Support to Iran Amid US Tensions

• Russian President Vladimir Putin reaffirmed Moscow's support for Tehran during Nowruz, Iran's new year.
• Putin extended greetings to Iran's Supreme Leader Ayatollah Mojtaba Khamenei and President Masoud Pezeshkian, calling Russia a 'loyal friend and reliable partner'.
• The declaration comes amid debates over the extent of Moscow's practical support to Iran during its current crisis.
• Russia has accused US and Israeli attacks on Iran of pushing the Middle East to the brink and fueling a global energy crisis.
• Despite a close partnership, the strategic agreement between Russia and Iran lacks a mutual defense clause, and Moscow opposes Iran acquiring nuclear weapons.