Europeans Worry Russia Is Preparing to Deliver Drones to Iran
The New York Times • • world
Key Points:
- European allies are increasingly worried that Russia is preparing to supply advanced drones to Iran for use in conflicts involving the United States and Israel.
- Russia and Iran have strengthened ties amid Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, with Russia using Iranian drones extensively and cooperating with Iran to evade Western sanctions.
- Following recent U.S. and Israeli attacks on Iran, Russia reportedly began sharing satellite and intelligence data on American bases and potential targets in the Middle East with Iran.
- Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky stated that Russia supplied Iran with drones and intelligence used in attacks on U.S. military sites, with reports indicating Moscow transferred drones produced under Iranian licenses.
- NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte declined to confirm the drone shipments but acknowledged close connections between Iran, Russia, North Korea, and China, citing intelligence confidentiality.
