Ukraine Threatens to Sever Ties with Tehran over Alleged Missile Supply

Kyiv may cut ties with Tehran if Russia uses Iranian ballistic missiles against Ukraine. U.S. Secretary of State Blinken confirmed that Russia has obtained the missiles. Ukraine warns of devastating consequences for its relationship with Iran. Allies propose additional sanctions and military support for Ukraine.

Kyiv warned on Tuesday that it might sever diplomatic ties with Tehran if Russia deploys Iranian-supplied ballistic missiles against Ukraine, branding such a move as 'unacceptable.' U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken confirmed the delivery of these missiles, nearly two and a half years since Russia's full-scale invasion began, stating that Moscow is likely to use them in upcoming weeks. Iran has denied any involvement in supplying the arms.

As Ukraine struggles with increased missile and drone assaults from Russia, the country hinted at severe repercussions for its relationship with Iran if the reports of missile supplies prove true. 'I will not specify what devastating consequences we mean, to avoid weakening our diplomatic stance. But all options are on the table,' stated Foreign Ministry spokesman Heorhiy Tykhyi when asked about the potential severance of ties with Tehran.

Ukraine's allies, including the U.S., have termed the missile delivery as a significant escalation, intending to impose further sanctions on Iran. However, Ukraine's top presidential adviser, Andriy Yermak, emphasized that sanctions alone would not suffice, calling for authorization to use Western arms against military targets in Russia, longer-range missiles, and enhanced air defense systems.

(With inputs from agencies.)