Sri Lanka, March 9 -- Russian President Vladimir Putin has written to Iran's new Supreme Leader Mojtaba Khamenei to congratulate him, according to the Kremlin.

"At a time when Iran is confronting armed aggression, your tenure in this high position undoubtedly requires great courage and dedication," Putin wrote. "We are confident that you will honorably uphold your father's legacy and unite the Iranian people in the face of severe trials."

Putin then reiterated Moscow's "continued support for Tehran and solidarity with our Iranian friends," while adding that Russia "has been and will remain a reliable partner of the Islamic Republic."

Iran on Monday named Mojtaba Khamenei to succeed his father Ali Khamenei as Supreme Leader, signaling t...