Ukraine Warns Iran Over Alleged Missile Supplies to Russia

Ukraine's foreign ministry has issued a stern warning to Iran over allegations that Tehran has supplied ballistic missiles to Russia. This move has potential 'devastating and irreparable consequences' for bilateral relations if proven true. While Iran denies the reports, the EU and other Western allies consider the information credible.

Ukraine's foreign ministry announced on Monday that it had summoned a senior Iranian diplomat to caution against 'devastating and irreparable consequences' for bilateral relations if reports of Tehran supplying ballistic missiles to Russia are confirmed.

A senior Iranian official dismissed the reports as 'psychological warfare,' while a European Union spokesperson described the information as 'credible.' Last week, CNN and the Wall Street Journal reported that Iran had transferred short-range ballistic missiles to Russia, according to unidentified sources.

The Ukrainian foreign ministry summoned Iran's charge d'affaires, Shahriar Amouzegar, and warned him about the severe consequences for relations if the missile deliveries were confirmed. Meanwhile, Brigadier Fazlollah Nozari denied the claims, stating: 'No missile was sent to Russia and this claim is a kind of psychological warfare.'

'Iran does not support any of the parties to the Ukraine-Russia conflict,' Nozari added. However, Western and Ukrainian officials have previously dismissed such denials, citing overwhelming evidence of Iran supplying items like Shahed drones to Russia.

EU foreign affairs spokesperson Peter Stano confirmed that the EU was aware of credible information provided by allies concerning the delivery of Iranian ballistic missiles to Russia. He warned that if confirmed, this delivery would indicate a significant escalation in Iran's support for Russia's illegal war against Ukraine.

EU leaders have made it clear that they would respond swiftly and in coordination with international partners, imposing significant restrictive measures against Iran if such a step is confirmed. Another European official mentioned that the U.S. had shared information on the reported transfer with allies and would likely make it public soon.

White House spokesperson John Kirby stated he could not confirm the reports but noted that such a scenario would have detrimental effects on both Ukraine and the Middle East. Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov responded by highlighting that Iran is an important partner for Russia in various areas, including economic and trade relations.

Ukraine previously noted that increasing military cooperation between Tehran and Moscow poses a significant threat to Ukraine, Europe, and the Middle East, calling for the international community to heighten pressure on both nations. NATO also highlighted that any transfer of ballistic missiles by Iran to Russia would signify a substantial escalation.

(With inputs from agencies.)