Russia’s Military Cooperation with Iran Will Continue Despite US Pressure
In a recent statement, Russian Deputy Foreign Minister Sergei Ryabkov affirmed that Russia’s military cooperation with Iran will not be influenced by geopolitical pressure. This comes in response to reports that the United States has requested Iran to halt the sale of drones to Moscow. Ryabkov emphasized that both Russia and Iran are independent states and will not succumb to the dictates of the US and its allies.
The Financial Times reported earlier this month that the US is pressuring Iran to stop selling armed drones to Russia, which are allegedly being used in the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. However, Iran has stated that none of its transactions regarding drones with other countries, including Russia, have been canceled. Iranian Defense Ministry spokesperson Reza Talaei-Nik also revealed that several Western and European countries have expressed interest in acquiring Iranian drones.
Russia has been utilizing Iranian-made Shahed drones to carry out attacks deep inside Ukraine. These kamikaze unmanned drones are capable of launching without a runway and explode upon impact. While the US claims that Iran has transferred hundreds of drones to Russia since August 2022, Moscow denies using Iranian drones in Ukraine.
In a separate development, Iran’s judiciary announced that a court in Tehran has ordered the US government to pay $330 million in damages for its alleged involvement in planning a coup against the newly established republic in 1980. Following the overthrow of the US-backed shah in Iran, a group of predominantly army officers attempted to overthrow the new government. Led by former Iranian air force commander Saeed Mahdiyoun, the coup plotters aimed to seize control of military bases and target strategic centers and residences of the revolution’s leaders. However, their efforts were thwarted, resulting in casualties and numerous arrests.
Relatives of those killed in the coup filed a legal petition with Iran’s International Court last year, accusing the US of planning and executing the coup. The court ruled in their favor, ordering the American government to pay $30 million in material and moral damages, along with $300 million in punitive damages.
It is worth noting that Tehran and Washington have had no diplomatic relations since the aftermath of the 1979 revolution. This ongoing tension between the two countries has contributed to the strained relationship and disputes over various issues.
In conclusion, despite US pressure, Russia remains committed to its military cooperation with Iran. The sale of drones from Iran to Russia continues, and other countries have shown interest in acquiring Iranian drones. Additionally, Iran’s judiciary has ordered the US government to pay substantial damages for its alleged involvement in planning a coup against the newly established republic in 1980. These developments highlight the complex dynamics between Russia, Iran, and the US, underscoring the challenges faced in international relations.