Russian President Vladimir Putin is apparently seeking closer ties with Iran and China amid growing tensions with the United States and sanctions by Western countries.

Putin met Iranian President Ebrahim Raisi in Moscow on Thursday. At the beginning of the summit, Putin said that it is "very important" for them to exchange views on the situation in the Middle East, "especially the situation in Palestine."

Raisi said many children in the Gaza Strip have been killed by the Israeli military. He called it a crime supported by the United States and other Western countries.

Russia has been bolstering ties with Iran, another adversary of the US.

Russia has been using Iranian-made suicide drones in its attacks on Ukraine. The White House voiced concern last month that Iran may also be considering providing Russia with ballistic missiles.

Ahead of the meeting with Raisi, Putin addressed businesspeople from China, India, Turkey and other nations at an investment forum in Moscow on Thursday.

Putin said the value of trade between Russia and China is expected to surpass 200 billion dollars this year. He added that Russia is ready to work with China in all areas, including military technology.