Russian President Vladimir Putin pledged to intensify strikes on Ukraine's energy infrastructure and reaffirmed Moscow's support for Iran during its war with the United States, following a regional summit in Kyrgyzstan.

Putin made the remarks after meeting Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian on the sidelines of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation summit in Bishkek. He praised Iran's "courage and resilience" and stated that Russia was providing "necessary assistance" and supplies during what he described as a "difficult period."

The comments came as Putin directed the Russian military to carry out mass strikes targeting Ukrainian energy facilities, according to reports. He claimed the operations were disrupting Kyiv's agricultural exports and posing a serious economic challenge, though he stopped short of predicting collapse.

This development occurs against the backdrop of Russia's ongoing war in Ukraine, which began in 2022, and a separate conflict between Iran and the United States that escalated earlier this year. A brief ceasefire between Washington and Tehran in June proved unstable, leading to renewed exchanges.

Putin also noted that Russia and Iran continue to maintain economic ties under their strategic partnership despite external pressures. The alliance has involved mutual military technology transfers, including Iranian drones used by Russia in Ukraine and Russian intelligence support for Iranian operations.

European nations have increased pressure on Moscow to halt its Ukraine offensive, but Putin signaled defiance by linking the escalations as a show of solidarity with Tehran. Negotiations on Ukraine remain stalled, with Putin indicating openness to certain diplomatic channels but criticizing Ukrainian leadership.

The summit highlighted deepening cooperation among nations opposing Western influence, including discussions on bypassing sanctions through multilateral frameworks.