Ukrainian President Zelenskyy has said that the Iranian regime previously supplied Russia with weapons used in its attacks against Ukraine.
In a statement on March 5, Zelenskyy noted that such concerns have lessened, as Iran is unlikely to provide additional supplies at present.
However, he added that Russia is now producing missiles and drones independently under previously transferred Iranian licenses.
“The Iranian regime supplied Russia with weapons that were used to kill our people. Those concerns have somewhat diminished now, because Iran is unlikely to be able to supply Russia with anything at the moment. However, at one point they transferred licenses, and Russia is now producing those missiles and drones on its own under Iranian licenses,” read part of the statement.
The Ukrainian leader said that while Russia is not an ally of Iran, it appears to be providing weapons to the Iranian regime.
Zelenskyy noted that Russian-made components have been identified in Iranian “Shahed” drones currently striking the Middle East.
Zelenskyy also suggested that Russia could supply Iran with additional systems, including air defense equipment, noting that Moscow possesses substantial stockpiles.
The comments follow reports that Iran recently inked a “secret” arms agreement with Russia, under which Tehran is set to receive missiles to strengthen its air defences.
According to a report published by the Financial Times on February 22, the $589 million deal was finalized in Moscow last December, based on leaked Russian documents and information from multiple sources.
Helping the Middle East
Zelenskyy said Ukraine has received requests from Middle Eastern countries to share expertise in defending against drone attacks, particularly following strikes by Iranian “shahed” drones on civilians.
He noted that Europe and the United States have also sought Ukraine’s guidance.
Further, the Ukrainian President acknowledged Ukraine’s own shortages, saying that while partners have missiles such as Patriots, intercepting hundreds or thousands of drones would be prohibitively expensive.
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He brought out Ukraine’s experience with interceptor drones that could be shared.
Zelenskyy added that Ukraine remains open to technology or weapons exchanges with its allies.
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Zelenskyy on the Impact of the Israel‑Iran War on Ukraine
He also acknowledged indications from the United States, both formal and informal, that military operations in the Middle East could continue, potentially impacting future shipments of air defence systems to Ukraine, including PAC-2 and PAC-3 interceptor missiles.
Zelenskyy expressed concern that a prolonged conflict could reduce U.S. deliveries of critical defense equipment.
On global energy, Zelenskyy said Europe and other regions are experiencing rising oil prices linked to Russia’s ongoing war in Ukraine.
He noted that hostilities have led to reduced or blocked oil imports, affecting global energy markets, and emphasized that all countries will need to work together to manage the crisis.
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