Russian President Vladimir Putin is said to have been closely monitoring the situation in northwestern Iran.

“Mr. Putin, the President of Russia, has been closely monitoring the developments since the start of this accident,” Igor Levitin, an adviser to Putin, told the Iranian vice president.

“Tonight, I convey his message of solidarity, concern, and sympathy to you and the Iranian nation.

“Upon receiving news of the accident, Mr Putin promptly instructed me to invite Mr Kazem Jalali, the Ambassador of the Islamic Republic of Iran, to the Kremlin Palace. There, Russia officially offers all its capabilities to assist our friendly country, Iran,” he added.