In March 2026, following a U.S.-Israeli operation targeting Iranian leadership, reactions from Russia were somewhat surprising. Even though Moscow had signed a 20-year strategic partnership with Tehran just the previous year, the Kremlin’s response was mostly limited to diplomatic rhetoric and accusations.
Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov indicated that Russia had not received a request from Iran for military support, stating, “There was no request from Iran in this case.” This came to light in a press briefing on March 5th.
For analysts monitoring the dynamics between Moscow and Tehran, it was almost reminiscent of past relations. Ksenia Svetlova, who leads the Regional Organization for Peace, Economics and Security, noted, “The relationship has always been transactional. Russia is prioritizing its own interests.”
While Iran and Russia have leaned towards each other more in recent years, especially post-Russia’s 2022 invasion of Ukraine, experts assert that this aligns more with historical convenience rather than strengthening a true alliance.
Historical Context
The relationship between these two nations stretches back almost 200 years. The Treaty of Turkmenchay from 1828 is a significant point of reference, where Persia lost much of the Caucasus to Russia, illustrating one of the low points of foreign domination in Iranian history.
In the 20th century, this shifted dramatically. Before the Islamic Revolution in 1979, Moscow had relatively stable ties with Iran, particularly under Shah Mohammad Reza Pahlavi, who even visited Moscow post-World War II. However, post-revolutionary sentiments turned sour, and mutual suspicion emerged, especially during the Cold War when Ruhollah Khomeini condemned both superpowers.
During the Iran-Iraq War in the 1980s, the Soviet Union maintained ties with Iran while reportedly arming Iraq, further complicating perceptions of loyalty and alliance.
Current Developments
In recent years, geopolitical shifts have evidently tightened the bond between Iran and Russia. The invasion of Ukraine catalyzed new military collaborations, even if they don’t share a land border since the Soviet Union’s fall. However, they remain “neighbors” over the Caspian Sea, with military cooperation becoming more significant, notably when Iran began providing drone technology used against Ukrainian infrastructure.
Vice Adm. Robert S. Harward highlighted the tragic consequences of this partnership, pointing out that Ukrainian churches have suffered greatly, with around 600 destroyed due to drone attacks.
Carrie Filippetti emphasized the paradox of this military cooperation, noting that if Russia genuinely sought peace, it would have initiated a ceasefire with Ukraine much earlier. Yet, attacks continue, underscoring a disconnect between rhetoric and reality.
Interestingly, reports suggest that while Russia continues to utilize Iranian drones, it is simultaneously developing its own production capabilities for similar weaponry. It seems that they are transitioning from reliance to domestic manufacturing of drones.
Intelligence Sharing
On another front, Secretary of War Pete Hegseth remarked that Russia should refrain from getting involved in conflicts between the U.S., Israel, and Iran, especially with allegations of intelligence sharing that could compromise U.S. military assets in the Middle East. This claim remains unacknowledged by Moscow.
Lieutenant General Richard Y. Newton III elaborated on this, asserting that Russia is indeed aiding Iran’s targeting efficiency against U.S. interests, further complicating international relations.
Some experts contend that Russia’s seemingly limited support for Iran may disguise a more profound intelligence-sharing relationship that could have significant implications.
In summary, despite significant historical tension, the current state of affairs shows a complicated yet strategic alignment between Russia and Iran, navigating their own national interests amidst ongoing global conflicts.
