Russia has reportedly received ballistic missiles from Iran and is expected to deploy them in Ukraine within weeks, according to US Secretary of State Antony Blinken. Speaking at a news conference in London, Blinken warned that the collaboration between Moscow and Tehran poses a threat to broader European security. Prior to his joint visit to Kyiv with British Foreign Secretary David Lammy, Blinken revealed that Washington had privately cautioned Iran against supplying ballistic missiles to Russia, characterizing such a move as a significant escalation. New sanctions are set to be announced later on Tuesday.
Blinken stated that Russia has already taken delivery of these ballistic missiles and is likely to use them against Ukraine in the coming weeks. He cited intelligence shared with US allies and partners globally. Additionally, Blinken disclosed that Iran has trained numerous Russian military personnel in the operation of the Fath-360 close-range ballistic missile system, which has a range of up to 75 miles. Reports suggest that Russian defense ministry representatives signed a contract with Iranian officials in December for the Fath-360 and another Iranian ballistic missile system.
A senior Iranian official denied allegations that Iran had supplied Russia with ballistic missiles, labeling the reports as 'psychological warfare.' Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov declined to confirm the reports but acknowledged cooperation with Iran in 'the most sensitive' areas. As Ukraine's forces struggle to repel a sustained Russian advance in the east, the introduction of Iranian missiles could allow Russia to conserve its own arsenal for targets further from the front line.
Blinken emphasized that the growing cooperation between Russia and Iran not only threatens European security but also highlights Iran's destabilizing influence beyond the Middle East. He added that Russia, which had previously adhered to UN restrictions on Iran, is now sharing technology sought by Tehran. This 'two-way street' includes collaboration on nuclear issues and space information.
With Iran already under heavy sanctions, some experts question the efficacy of additional economic penalties, which may disproportionately affect the middle class rather than the country's leaders. The new US sanctions announced on Tuesday will target Iran Air and other entities, with other countries expected to follow suit. Ukraine welcomed the additional sanctions on Iran for its missile supply to Russia. Presidential chief of staff Andriy Yermak reiterated Kyiv's request for Washington's approval to use US-supplied weapons deeper into Russian territory.
The Biden administration has relaxed a policy that previously barred Ukraine from using US-supplied weapons in attacks on targets inside Russia. However, these arms are intended to counter Russian forces attacking or preparing to attack across the border. Yermak emphasized the need for authorization to use Western weapons against military targets on Russian soil, longer-range missiles, and enhanced air defense systems.
During his visit to Ukraine on Wednesday, Blinken aims to directly consult with Ukraine's leadership on their current needs, objectives, and how the US can provide support. Blinken and Lammy's joint visit is intended to demonstrate unified Western support for Kyiv. Blinken will also visit Poland on Thursday, according to the State Department.
