Washington (EFE).- The United States government assured that Iran has supplied more than 400 drones to Russia since last August, most of the “shahed” type, which Moscow is using in the war in Ukraine.
White House National Security Council spokesman John Kirby said on a call with reporters that they are seeing “indications” that Iran and Russia “are expanding” their “unprecedented” defense collaboration.
“Iran remains Russia’s largest military supporter and has already provided it with artillery and tank ammunition for use in Ukraine,” Kirby said.
He explained that most of the 400 Iranian drones that the Islamic Republic has delivered to Russia have been used against “critical” infrastructure in Ukraine.
In parallel, Kirby pointed out that Moscow is sending weapons to Tehran and recalled that last month Iran announced that it had closed an agreement with Russia to acquire 35 Russian-made Sukhoi-type fighter-bombers.
“Iran is looking to buy more military equipment including combat helicopters, radar and Yak 130 fighter jets,” Kirby said.
He reiterated that the US will continue to impose “costs” on those involved in sending Iranian military equipment to Russia for use in Ukraine and recalled that it has applied sanctions to Russians, Iranians and other “actors” involved in this activity.
He anticipated that in the coming days Washington will announce new sanctions against people and entities linked to the sale of arms between Russia and Iran.