Information
Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian met with Russian President Vladimir Putin in Moscow to discuss and strengthen bilateral relations through a new treaty aimed at deepening military and economic ties. This marks Pezeshkian’s first visit to Russia since taking office. Both leaders expressed optimism about the treaty, with Putin highlighting its broad impact on cooperation and Pezeshkian emphasizing the strategic importance of Iran-Russia relations. The Kremlin described the partnership as critical, especially given the shared challenges of Western sanctions. Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov also called the treaty constructive, reinforcing collaboration with allied nations.
Despite their growing ties, the Iran-Russia relationship faces international scrutiny, particularly over accusations that Iran has supplied ballistic missiles and drones to Russia for use in the Ukraine conflict—claims Tehran denies. Meanwhile, Iran is grappling with setbacks in the Middle East, including Israeli military actions against Tehran-backed groups such as Hezbollah and Hamas following significant escalations. Russia has also expanded its military alliances, signing a defence treaty with North Korea, which has sent troops to support Russia’s war in Ukraine. These developments underscore the complexity and controversial nature of the alliances and their implications for global geopolitics.
Source: Reuters, AFP
So what
It is likely that this is a relationship of necessity, as both Russia and Iran are currently very isolated in the international community. While China is also supportive of Russia, it has kept its distance to avoid international sanctions. Russia almost certainly relies on Iran for a number of things, but Drones are currently critical. In return, it appears possible that Russia will support Iran’s Nuclear program, possibly leading to them developing a usable weapon in the next few years.
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