Russia strengthens ties with Iran amid US missile aid to Ukraine

Reuters cites sources in two European intelligence agencies. According to reports, the contract for the delivery of Fath-360 missiles was signed back in December 2023.

Iranian-made missiles are capable of targeting at distances of up to 120 kilometres. The agency points out that equipping the Russian army with this system will mean that the launchers already possessed by the Russians can only be used to target more distant objectives, including those located behind the front line.

Meanwhile, a contradictory statement was issued by Iran's mission to the UN. It stated that Tehran has signed a long-term strategic partnership with Russia, including military cooperation, but "for ethical reasons, Iran will refrain from transferring any weapons, including ballistic missiles, that could be used in the conflict with Ukraine until the end of the war".

John Kirby, spokesperson for the American National Security Council, when asked about these reports, stated that the United States and its allies "are ready for a quick and harsh response if Iran decides on such arms transfers".

- The White House has repeatedly warned Iran against deepening cooperation with Russia following its full-scale invasion of Ukraine - added Kirby.

So far, Iran has only provided Russia with Shahed drones.

National Security Council spokesperson John Kirby also reported that the USA will transfer Stinger missiles and ammunition worth $125 million to Ukraine. This is another tranche of the aid package approved by Congress in April 2024.