Kufre George
The United States has accused Russia of providing advanced military assistance to Iran, including air defence systems, as it warned of deepening defence ties between Moscow and Tehran, with Russia using Iranian drones to hit targets in Ukraine.
White House National Security Council spokesman John Kirby cited US intelligence assessments for the allegations, saying Russia was offering Iran an unprecedented level of military and technical support that is transforming their relationship into a full-fledged defense partnership.
Kirby said Russia and Iran were considering setting up a drone assembly line in Russia for the Ukraine conflict, while Russia was training Iranian pilots on the Sukhoi Su-35 fighter, with Iran.
Last month, Tehran admitted it had sent drones to Russia but insisted they were supplied before Russia invaded Ukraine.