Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov denied on Friday accusations that Moscow has provided Iran with intelligence support, while confirming that Russia is acting within the framework of a military technical cooperation agreement signed with Tehran.
Speaking in an interview with France TV, Lavrov stated: “We reject the accusations of supplying Iran with intelligence,” adding that Russia has delivered certain types of military products to Iran in accordance with the agreement.
“Public Information” and Political Messaging
Lavrov emphasised that the locations of US military bases in the Middle East are widely known, describing them as “publicly available information.” He added that he was not surprised by Iran’s targeting of these bases.
He also noted that Moscow has repeatedly sent signals to Washington calling for dialogue to resolve tensions in the Gulf and the broader Middle East, stressing that Russia continues to advocate for a political settlement rather than military escalation.
Western Accusations Against Moscow
Despite these denials, Western officials have accused Russia of actively supporting Iran’s military operations.
German Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul accused Moscow of assisting Tehran in identifying potential targets, suggesting that President Vladimir Putin may be using the war on Iran to divert attention from the conflict in Ukraine.
British Home Secretary Yvette Cooper expressed concern on behalf of the United Kingdom and its G7 allies over the growing ties between Russia and Iran, particularly following allegations that Moscow is aiding Tehran in targeting US forces in the region.
French Foreign Minister Jean Noel Barrot stated that available evidence strongly suggests Russian support for Iran’s military efforts against American targets, though he added that France is monitoring the situation and will respond if necessary.
Meanwhile, US Secretary of State Marco Rubio downplayed Russia’s role, asserting that Moscow is not undertaking actions that materially affect US military operations, and that Washington continues to execute its plans on schedule.
Limited Support and Strategic Restraint
Despite deepening ties, reports indicate that Russia has refused Iranian requests for advanced S 400 air defence systems, in an apparent effort to avoid direct escalation with Washington.
Although Russian President Vladimir Putin and Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian signed a comprehensive strategic partnership agreement last year, analysts suggest that Moscow has opted for a cautious approach since the outbreak of war.
A detailed analysis by Alexander Gabuev, Nicole Grajewski, and Sergey Vakulenko, published in Foreign Affairs, concluded that Russia’s response to the US Israeli attack on Iran has largely been limited to weak condemnations and calls for de escalation.
Researchers observed that this pattern reflects a broader strategy, where Moscow issues strong rhetorical statements in support of its allies but rarely takes decisive action on the ground.
Arms Shipments and Intelligence Support
Accusations of deeper involvement intensified following a Financial Times report indicating that Russia is close to delivering shipments of drones, medical supplies, and food to Iran.
Western intelligence sources cited in the report suggested that these deliveries are intended to strengthen Iran’s military capabilities and internal stability.
Iran has relied heavily on low cost attack drones as part of its military strategy, reportedly launching more than 3,000 such drones since the outbreak of war on 28 February.
According to the report, this would mark the first documented instance of Moscow providing lethal military assistance to Iran since the start of the conflict.
In addition to weapons, Russia is believed to have supplied satellite imagery, targeting data, and intelligence support to Tehran.
Evolving Drone Capabilities
Since 2023, Russia has been producing one way attack drones based on Iranian designs for use in Ukraine. These drones have been modified to evade air defences and carry larger payloads.
Antonio Giustozzi of the Royal United Services Institute noted that Iran is not seeking more drones, but rather more advanced capabilities.
Specifically, Tehran is interested in Russian upgrades to navigation systems. Nicole Grajewski highlighted that Russia has enhanced Shahed drones by improving engines, navigation, and anti jamming capabilities.
Deliveries of drones and humanitarian aid are expected to be completed by the end of March, although Western officials have stated that the exact models of drones to be supplied remain unclear.
China’s More Cautious Role
According to The Washington Post, Russia has also provided Iran with locations of US military assets, including ships and aircraft. However, Iran’s ability to accurately target US forces reportedly declined after recent US and Israeli strikes.
In contrast, China appears to be adopting a more cautious approach. CNN reported that US intelligence suggests Beijing may be preparing to provide financial assistance to Iran, along with spare parts and missile components.
Sources indicated that China’s restraint is driven by concerns over potential disruptions to global energy supplies.
