Russian President Vladimir Putin has congratulated Iran on the selection of Mojtaba Khamenei as the country’s new Supreme Leader. Russian media reported that Putin expressed confidence that the new leader would continue his father’s legacy and challenge U.S. dominance. Mojtaba Khamenei, the second son of former Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, was officially chosen to succeed his father.

According to the report, Putin praised the decision and conveyed his support for Iran’s leadership transition. In contrast, U.S. President Donald Trump was reportedly displeased with the outcome. Fox News host Brian Kilmeade said Trump told him he was “not happy” about Mojtaba Khamenei’s selection, though the U.S. president has not made any public statement on the matter.

The differing reactions from Moscow and Washington highlight the geopolitical tensions surrounding Iran’s leadership change, with Russia signaling alignment and the United States expressing concern.