Russia's Acquisition of Iranian Ballistic Missiles: Implications for Ukraine and Europe

Russia has received ballistic missiles from Iran, which it plans to use in Ukraine within weeks, according to U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken. This escalation of Russian-Iranian cooperation could threaten wider European security. New sanctions by the U.S. and its allies are set to be imposed against Iran.

U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken announced on Tuesday that Russia has received ballistic missiles from Iran and is likely to deploy them in Ukraine within weeks. Speaking at a London news conference, Blinken warned that the growing collaboration between Moscow and Tehran poses a significant threat to wider European security.

Blinken confirmed that the U.S. has privately cautioned Iran that providing ballistic missiles to Russia would be a severe escalation of hostilities. New sanctions against Iran, including measures aimed at Iran Air, were to be imposed later on Tuesday. Further sanctions from the UK, France, and Germany are also anticipated.

According to Reuters, a deal was signed in December between Russian defense officials and Iranian authorities for the Fath-360 and another missile system. Despite Iran's denial, Blinken emphasized the pressing need for coordinated international response to the threats posed by this Russia-Iran alliance.

(With inputs from agencies.)