Ukraine Warns Iran Over Alleged Missile Supply to Russia

Ukraine's foreign ministry has warned Iran of severe consequences if reports of Tehran supplying ballistic missiles to Russia are confirmed. Despite Iranian denials, Western and Ukrainian officials assert credible evidence supports these claims. The situation has prompted potential international sanctions and raised concerns over escalating military cooperation between Iran and Russia.

Ukraine's foreign ministry summoned a senior Iranian diplomat on Monday to issue a stark warning about potential 'devastating and irreparable consequences' if reports of Tehran supplying ballistic missiles to Russia are verified.

A high-ranking Iranian official disputed the allegations, labeling them as 'psychological warfare.' However, a European Union spokesperson indicated the information is 'credible.' Last week, CNN and the Wall Street Journal reported that Iran had transferred short-range ballistic missiles to Russia, citing unnamed sources.

The Ukrainian foreign ministry communicated through Telegram that Iran's charge d'affaires, Shahriar Amouzegar, had been officially summoned and sternly cautioned regarding the potential fallout. Senior Iranian commander Brigadier Fazlollah Nozari denied the claims, stating, 'No missile was sent to Russia... this claim is a kind of psychological warfare.'

Western and Ukrainian officials have previously dismissed such denials, citing substantial evidence of Iran supplying Shahed drones to Russia. EU foreign affairs spokesperson Peter Stano said in an email that confirmed deliveries would mark a significant escalation in Iran's support for Russia's illegal aggression against Ukraine.

EU leaders have vowed to respond swiftly in coordination with international partners with new sanctions against Iran. Additionally, other European officials indicated that the U.S. had shared related information with allies and was expected to make it public soon.

NATO also warned that any ballistic missile delivery by Iran to Russia would represent a 'substantial escalation' in the ongoing conflict. Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov acknowledged the reports but cautioned that not all such news could be trusted. He affirmed the ongoing multifaceted cooperation between Russia and Iran.

(With inputs from agencies.)