Iran and Russia share a long history of political alignment and mutual interests. Both nations have faced international sanctions and cautions from Western powers, which has shaped their diplomatic posture. During a visit to Moscow, Vladimir Putin and his Iranian counterpart, Ibrahim Raisi, used the meeting to highlight concerns about the consequences of Israeli actions. Raisi described the situation in the Gaza Strip as a genocide and crimes against humanity, pointing to backing from the United States and Western countries.
The discussion broadened to a critique of international institutions, with Raisi arguing that some organizations have lost effectiveness. The tense environment in the Middle East continues to attract wide attention because of potential ripple effects on regional actors, including Lebanese militias, Hezbollah, and Syria, all of which may feel the pressure of developing events.
Both countries criticized Israel’s bombing of Palestinian targets. Iran indicated it is increasing the supply of low-cost unmanned aerial vehicles for use by Russia. The Shahed drones, which have been deployed in various theaters, were mentioned in the context of continued military cooperation. Russia has utilized such equipment in operations against Ukrainian targets, including civilian areas in cities like Kyiv. In Moscow on this occasion, Iran announced a deal to supply more Russian military hardware, including Su-35 fighter jets, Mi-28 combat helicopters, and Yak-130 training aircraft.
More economic cooperation
A key topic at the talks was the expansion of economic collaboration. The relationship between Moscow and Tehran has grown stronger over time, and both leaders signaled openness to intensified trade and investment. Putin and Raisi discussed a potential free trade agreement with the Eurasian Economic Union, an alliance led by Russia and comprising countries such as Belarus, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, and Armenia.
The Russian president noted that trade between Moscow and Tehran approached several billion dollars, highlighting the scale of bilateral commerce. Raisi emphasized that such meetings can create favorable conditions to unlock the full potential of cooperation between the two nations, inviting practical steps that translate plans into action.
The two leaders identified major infrastructure projects as a priority, including progress on the North-South transport corridor and continued development in the energy sector. Raisi invited Putin to Tehran for a future visit, an invitation the Russian president accepted with a positive outlook. Putin indicated plans to travel to Iran in the near future, marking a continuation of high-level exchanges not seen since 2022.