Russian President Vladimir Putin and Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian have discussed bilateral relations, trade, and the situation in the Middle East during a meeting in Turkmenistan.

Axar.az reports, citing Russian media, that Putin said trade turnover between Russia and Iran increased by more than 21% last year, with the trend continuing during the first seven months of 2026.

The Russian leader said relations between Moscow and Tehran were developing positively under a strategic partnership treaty signed in early 2025. He also highlighted active cooperation in the humanitarian sphere.

Putin described the situation in the Middle East as the “most acute problem” at present and said Russia was ready to do everything within its power to help resolve the crisis.