Russia is sending military aid, including drones, medicine, and food, to Iran to support its war effort against the United States and Israel, according to Western intelligence reports. The shipments began in early March and were expected to be completed by the end of the month, officials briefed on the intelligence told the Financial Times.
Russia-Iran Military Cooperation
Russia has been a close ally of Iran, particularly since Iran provided hundreds of one-way attack drones to support Moscow’s war against Ukraine. The Kremlin has also helped Iran establish drone manufacturing plants in Russia. In return, Moscow is now providing Iran with drones, satellite imagery, targeting data, and other intelligence support.
U.S. and Ukrainian Responses
The White House has downplayed the impact of Russia’s support for Iran, stating that U.S. military operations have significantly weakened Iran’s capabilities. White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt said the U.S. has taken out nearly 30 of Iran’s ships and reduced ballistic missile strikes by 90%. Meanwhile, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky accused Russia of blackmailing the U.S. by offering to stop sharing military intelligence with Iran if Washington cuts off intelligence support to Ukraine. Zelensky claimed that some Iranian drones used in attacks against U.S. assets contained Russian components.
Kremlin’s Stance
Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov denied assisting Iran in its conflict with the U.S. and Israel, stating that Russia continues its dialogue with Iranian leadership. The war between the U.S., Israel, and Iran has been ongoing for nearly a month since Operation Epic Fury was launched on February 28.