Kyiv Threatens Diplomatic Break with Tehran Over Iranian Missile Deliveries to Russia

Ukraine has warned it could sever ties with Iran if it confirms Russia's use of Iranian-supplied ballistic missiles. The threat follows U.S. claims that Russia received these weapons, which Ukraine and its allies deem a severe escalation. Kyiv calls for increased Western military support and further sanctions on Iran.

Kyiv issued a stern warning on Tuesday that it might break diplomatic relations with Tehran if Russia deploys ballistic missiles supplied by Iran against Ukraine. The move comes after U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken confirmed that Russia had obtained the missiles, with intentions to use them shortly.

Ukraine, already coping with a surge in Russian missile and drone attacks, emphasized that confirmed missile supplies from Iran would lead to severe repercussions for bilateral relations. Foreign Ministry spokesman Heorhiy Tykhyi said all options, including severing ties, were being considered.

President Volodymyr Zelenskiy, although omitting Iran in his nightly address, vowed to rally global support against any nation aiding Russia. Ukraine's allies, including the U.S., have warned that such deliveries escalate the conflict and have pledged additional sanctions on Iran. High-ranking Ukrainian officials stress that sanctions alone are insufficient and call for enhanced Western military support.

(With inputs from agencies.)