Ukraine’s Zelenskiy Raises Concerns Over Russian Support to Iran

During a war update on Monday, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy expressed his worries that the Russian government may be aiding Iranian intelligence services to enhance their targeting of American or Israeli interests amid ongoing conflicts.

Zelenskiy accused Russia, which has been actively invading Ukraine since 2022, of extending Iran’s confrontations with the United States and Israel by facilitating Iran’s military operations. He pointed out that, alongside attacks on Israel, Iran has been striking nearby nations since the U.S. initiated Operation Epic Fury. This operation aimed to restrict Iran’s capacity to pose a global threat. Iran, often labeled the most significant global state sponsor of terrorism, finances groups like Hamas, Hezbollah, and Yemen’s Houthis.

In his evening update concerning the invasion, Zelenskiy stated, “Ukraine’s Defense Intelligence Service has released a report regarding Iran. We’re seeing growing proof that Russia is still offering intelligence support to the Iranian regime.” He described this collaboration as harmful and insisted it needs to end to prevent further destabilization.

He continued, “By backing the Iranian regime’s persistence and facilitating more precise strikes, Russia is effectively extending the conflict. A response is necessary.”

For several months, Ukrainian officials have claimed that Iran has been mass-producing Shahed-class suicide drones for Russia. Evidence of these drones has been gathered through their discovery and destruction on Ukrainian soil. Since the start of the present hostilities in Iran, post-Operation Epic Fury, Zelenskiy has warned that the alliance between Iran and Russia poses a global threat, exacerbating the situation for Ukrainians amidst ongoing aggression.

In a statement, Zelenskiy remarked, “The geopolitical landscape is becoming increasingly complex due to the war with Iran, which unfortunately gives Russia more confidence.” He added, however, that the core situation hadn’t shifted significantly.

He further noted, “Russia persists with this war and the destabilization of Europe, backing the Iranian regime with intelligence, thus prolonging the conflict in the area.” He emphasized the necessity to halt the ongoing threat of war.

On the military front, Ukraine reported that on Monday, 365 drones were launched, with 250 identified as Iranian Shahed drones. These drones are typically characterized as “kamikaze” devices or loitering ammunition. Earlier in February, Kyiv labeled Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guards Corps (IRGC) as a terrorist entity due to their alleged involvement in the invasion.

Following Operation Epic Fury, Iran has escalated drone attacks against various neighboring countries, mainly in the Arab Gulf region. The operation was particularly notable as it resulted in the death of Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei. Recorded targets have included Saudi Arabia, the UAE, Qatar, and several other nations. Iran has denied some of these allegations despite clear evidence of their involvement.

Notably, Russia remains one of the few nations willing to defend Iran throughout the current conflict, even with its friendly ties to countries like Saudi Arabia. During a statement on Tuesday, Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov condemned the situation, describing Iran as a victim of “harsh military aggression by the United States and Israel,” and called for cooperative resolutions.

Zelenskiy has cautioned that the Gulf situation could soon spill over into Europe. During a recent visit to London, he hinted that advancements in drone technology might lead to a world where living above ground becomes increasingly perilous, suggesting it may be safer to reside “under concrete.”

He emphasized the need to prepare for diverse types of attacks from non-state actors, including potential terrorist activities. “With the rise of drone technology, large-scale assaults are no longer just a financial burden for the wealthy,” he noted, demonstrating the shifting landscape of threats.

In several discussions about the conflict with Iran, Zelenskiy expressed readiness to aid the U.S., stating he would send Ukrainian forces to assist American civilians “without a moment’s hesitation.”

He clarified, “I don’t want the United States to see Ukraine simply as a nation in need of support. We are defending our interests and values.” He acknowledged that the U.S. might feel more distanced from the war than Europe but emphasized awareness of threats to allies in the Middle East.

Additionally, he reflected on the importance of unity among nations in the face of rising dangers.