Kremlin responds to U.S. claim of potential Iran-Russia missile deal
The Kremlin has pushed back against recent remarks by John Kirby, the strategic communications coordinator of the U.S. National Security Council, suggesting the possibility of Iran supplying ballistic missiles to Russia.
Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov commented on Wednesday, stating, "Russia's defense cooperation with Iran, including technical military cooperation, is developing, but we do not comment on these statements and information."
According to Reuters, the White House expressed concerns that Iran might be considering providing Russian ballistic missiles to enhance Russia's position in the conflict with Ukraine.
Kirby stated during a press conference that Iran had already supplied Russia with unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), guided aerial bombs, and artillery ammunition.
"Iran may take a further step in supporting Russia. The White House is worried that Iran might give Russia its ballistic missiles to use in the war against Ukraine," Kirby said.
He highlighted the extensive defense cooperation between Russia and Iran, covering missiles, electronics, and air defense systems, with Iran seeking to purchase billions of dollars in military equipment from Russia.
Additionally, Kirby claimed that the Russian private military group Wagner, operating under Moscow's guidance, is preparing to provide air defense capabilities to Lebanon's Hezbollah, supported by Iran.
The U.S. has indicated readiness to impose counterterrorism sanctions against Russian entities or officials involved in "destabilizing operations associated with arms transfers."
In May, the White House expressed concerns about an expanding defense partnership between Russia and Iran, viewing it as contributing to Moscow's prolonged war in Ukraine and posing a threat to Iran's neighboring countries.
