Iranian missiles in Russia are a legitimate target, a Ukrainian official says

Ukrainian Official Urges Authorization for Strikes on Russian Missile Warehouses

A senior Ukrainian official, Andrii Yermak, has asserted that Western countries supplying weapons to Ukraine should permit their use against military warehouses inside Russia. This request stems from suspicions that Iran has provided ballistic missiles to aid the Kremlin’s war effort. Yermak believes that retaliatory strikes on missile storage facilities are essential to avert further terror attacks within Ukraine.

US: Iran Has Provided Ballistic Missile Support to Russia

Sources close to the matter have revealed that the United States has shared intelligence with its allies, indicating that Iran has supplied short-range ballistic missiles to Russia for its invasion of Ukraine. This information has raised concerns among Western nations and Ukraine alike.

Hesitation to Strike Russian Soil

Despite the alleged missile transfer, Western powers supporting Ukraine have been hesitant to authorize strikes on Russian territory. They fear that such actions could escalate the conflict and potentially draw them into Europe’s largest war since World War II. Yermak, however, argues that the need for protection should not be misconstrued as escalation.

Ukrainian Resilience and Counteroffensive

Despite relentless Russian missile and drone attacks that have claimed over 10,000 civilian lives and crippled electricity production, Ukraine has remained steadfast in its resistance. The nation has even executed a daring incursion into Russia’s Kursk region while simultaneously countering Russian advances in eastern Ukraine’s Donetsk region.

Iran’s Military Assistance to Russia

Since 2022, Russia has been acquiring Iranian-made Shahed drones. The potential delivery of Iranian ballistic missiles has further escalated tensions, prompting Western governments to express alarm. Amidst Russia’s attempts to secure support from other nations, President Vladimir Putin has sought closer ties with Iran.

Russia and Iran Deny Missile Transfer

Dmitry Peskov, the Kremlin spokesman, has downplayed reports of Iranian missile supplies, stating that such information is not always accurate. However, he acknowledges Iran’s importance as a partner and asserts that cooperation will continue in various domains. Iran’s Foreign Ministry has adamantly denied providing weapons to Russia, attributing accusations to political motivations.

Ukrainian Foreign Ministry’s Condemnation

The Ukrainian Foreign Ministry has expressed deep concern regarding the potential missile transfer. A statement emphasizes that Iran must cease weapon deliveries to Russia and demonstrate its genuine non-involvement in the conflict.

Global Security Concerns

CIA Director William Burns has cautioned against the growing defense relationship between Russia, China, Iran, and North Korea. He believes that these alliances pose threats to both Ukraine and Western allies in the Middle East.

China’s Support for Russia

While China has not directly provided arms to Russia, it has emerged as a crucial economic lifeline by importing Russian oil and gas. China has also supplied electronics and other items with dual-use potential, both civilian and military.

Joint Russia-China Military Drills

China’s Defense Ministry has announced upcoming joint naval and air exercises with Russia, starting this month. These maneuvers underscore the growing defense ties between the two nations.