Putin Backs Iran as Treasury Secretary Says Oil Exports Near Zero

Russian President Vladimir Putin backed Iran’s diplomatic position during a Wednesday call with Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian, as the Trump administration said pressure had pushed Tehran’s crude exports near zero.

The leaders pledged to strengthen bilateral cooperation during the call, which coincided with Putin’s birthday. Putin said Russia supported diplomatic efforts and that Iran could count on Moscow’s readiness to help. He also praised Iran’s “courage” in facing attacks.

Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent said Iranian crude exports had fallen to near “zero.” On Tuesday, he said Iran had not loaded a single barrel of crude onto a vessel since Aug. 25 and questioned what the country’s new oil minister was managing.

The administration’s claim came as tensions around the Strait of Hormuz continued. Iran’s military has ramped up drone attacks on foreign vessels making what Tehran considers unauthorized passages, carrying out at least 10 attacks on ships this month. The attacks have had little impact on oil prices.

An Iranian military spokesman said Tehran would carry out “preemptive operations in the future to deter the enemy from any aggression or attack” if necessary.

Tehran has continued to signal that it is open to a peace agreement, while saying it does not trust President Donald Trump.