Russian President Vladimir Putin’s ongoing war in Ukraine is now affecting other battlefields. According to a Western intelligence official, Moscow is now helping Tehran use the drone warfare tactics it developed against Ukraine to attack the US and targets in the Persian Gulf in the Middle East, CNN reported.
Russia is helping Iran in its war against the US
Iran’s Shahed drones, which are now being mass-produced by Russia for use in Ukraine, have proved unexpectedly effective in breaching the air defenses of the Persian Gulf countries. The official added that until now, Russian intelligence sharing with Iran had been limited to general targeting assistance; however, specific tactical advice means a new and deeper level of cooperation between the two.
The official said: “What was more general support is now increasingly worrying, including the UAS (drones) targeting strategies that Russia has used in Ukraine.” While the official did not reveal the exact tactical assistance Iran may be receiving from Russia, it is known to use Shahed drones against Ukraine in waves, with multiple drones flying together and regularly changing course to avoid air defenses.
Ukrainian president’s statement on Russia’s aid to Iran
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said in a post on X today that Russia has begun supporting the Iranian regime with drones, adding that it will help with missiles and air defense. He further said: “Given the situation, there is only one question: when and which country will be the first to support the Iranian regime by sending troops? Like what happened with Russia when North Korea sent 10,000 troops who are now stationed in Russia but may be sent to Ukraine. The same could happen in Iran – Russia could send troops there.”
Kiev has also sent drone interception experts to the Persian Gulf region to help the US. These experts share their expertise in pawning relatively inexpensive Shaheds that can cost $30,000. Ukraine has developed small interceptors that cost about $5,000 each and can be produced quickly.
The development comes as the US-Israeli war in Iran enters its 12th day with no signs of abating. The conflict has thrown the Middle East region into renewed confrontation, with many countries now bearing the brunt. Loud explosions were heard in major cities such as Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Riyadh, Doha and Manama, with Tehran stepping up its attacks on US military bases and Israel in retaliation.
Russia provides support to Iran
Earlier on Monday, hours after Iran announced Mojtaba Khamenei as its next supreme leader, Putin extended his “unwavering support”, adding: “At a time when Iran is facing armed aggression, your retention in this high position will undoubtedly require great courage and sacrifice,” AFP reported.
Putin also expressed confidence in Mojtaba Khamenei, saying he would be honored to continue his father’s work and unite Iranians in the face of difficult trials, the Times of Israel reported.
Putin and Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian also spoke by phone earlier after the country’s former supreme leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, was killed in airstrikes on February 28.
