Russian Deputy Foreign Minister Sergei Ryabkov asserted that Russia’s military collaboration with Iran would not waver. This statement follows recent reports indicating that the United States had urged Tehran to halt the sale of drones to Moscow.
Ryabkov, speaking in response to these developments, made it clear that the existing partnership between Russia and Iran would persist without alteration. He emphasized the autonomy of both nations, firmly stating that they would not bow to the demands of the United States and its affiliated countries.
The backdrop to this statement is the United States’ effort to persuade Iran to cease the sale of armed drones, which are currently being employed by Russia in the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. The Financial Times, in a report earlier this month, cited sources familiar with the discussions, including an Iranian official, to reveal Washington’s push for the cessation of drone sales.
Iran, for its part, has acknowledged its prior involvement in providing drones to Russia. However, it contends that these transactions occurred prior to Russia’s military intervention in Ukraine in February 2022. Moscow, in response, has categorically denied any usage of Iranian-supplied drones by its forces in the Ukrainian conflict.
As tensions and allegations surrounding the conflict persist, the resolute stance of both Russia and Iran in maintaining their military partnership underscores their commitment to upholding their strategic interests despite external pressures. The situation remains fluid, with implications for international relations and regional stability yet to fully unfold.
