Institute for the study of war stated on August 11, 2022, that Russia and Iran have expanded their strategic partnership since Russia invaded Ukraine in February 2022.
Source: American Institute for the study of war
The US thinks that Iranian material support, such as the supply of Shahed-129 and Shahed-191 military drones for use in Ukraine may help Russia achieve some military objectives.
“Iran is supplying weapons and possibly conducting cyber attacks to support Russia’s invasion of Ukraine.”
According to deputy official representative of the US State Department Vedant Patel, Iran’s transfer of drones to Russia “potentially falls under numerous sanctions”.
Senior Russian and Iranian officials have met frequently in recent months to boost cooperation and sign economic and military deals.
“Moscow and Tehran have long cooperated when their interests coincide, especially in the confrontation with the US in the Middle East, but their latest actions highlight a more concerted effort to strengthen their partnership,” the Institute said.
These interactions indicate a deepening and potentially more balanced relationship in which Russia is no longer the dominant party.
“This partnership is likely to challenge the interests of the US and its allies in Europe, the Middle East and around the world,” the analysts added.
See also: Russia opposed the demilitarized zone around the Ukraine’s Zaporizhzhia nuclear plant
