Top Russian security official Sergei Shoigu visited Iran for talks with his counterpart amidst growing concerns over a potential nuclear deal between Tehran and Moscow. The U.S. and the U.K. have expressed worries about the deepening relationship between Iran and Russia, especially in light of the ongoing conflict in Ukraine.
During a recent visit to the U.K., Secretary of State Antony Blinken raised alarms about Iran supplying Russia with short-range ballistic missiles to support its military operations in Ukraine. Blinken also highlighted the exchange of technology between Russia and Iran, including in nuclear and space-related matters.
A report by The Guardian hinted at a secret agreement between Russia and Iran, where Russia would provide Iran with the necessary technology to develop a nuclear weapon. This revelation has sparked concerns among nuclear experts and international bodies like the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA).
Recent reports suggest that Iran has been advancing its nuclear program unchecked, with an increase in highly enriched uranium stockpiles reaching 60% purity, just below the threshold for weapons-grade uranium.
Sergei Shoigu's visit to Iran followed a trip to North Korea, where he met with leader Kim Jong Un to strengthen the Russia-North Korea partnership. There are suspicions that North Korea may be supplying arms to Russia to support its activities in Ukraine, raising fears of further military escalation.
Despite Western nations' pledges to hold accountable those aiding Russia in the conflict with Ukraine, concerns persist about potential military support from adversarial nations. The U.S. and the U.K. have maintained restrictions on Ukrainian long-range weapons to prevent deep strikes into Russia, a move they argue is crucial for resolving the conflict.
