Iran is preparing for a visit by Russian President Vladimir Putin, as confirmed by Iranian government spokesperson Fatemeh Mohajerani on Monday. “Putin’s trip to Tehran is currently being worked out, preparations are underway,” she stated, according to Russia’s state RIA news agency. The Kremlin has yet to comment on the potential visit.
This anticipated meeting underscores the strengthening relationship between Moscow and Tehran, particularly in military cooperation and nuclear collaboration.
Since Russia’s invasion of Ukraine in 2022, Iran has become a significant military partner for Moscow. Iran has supplied Russia with various drones, including the Shahed-131/136 series and the more advanced Mohajer-6, which have been utilized in Ukraine. Notably, a factory has been established in Russia to produce Iranian-style drones, indicating deepening defense collaboration between the two nations.
In addition to drone technology, Iran has reportedly provided Russia with munitions and artillery shells. In November 2023, Tehran announced plans to acquire Russian Su-35 fighter jets and Mi-28 attack helicopters, though these deliveries have yet to occur.
Furthermore, Iran is reportedly preparing to send Fath-360 short-range ballistic missile launchers to Russia, potentially enhancing Moscow’s offensive capabilities in Ukraine. While Iran denies these transactions, U.S. officials have stated that missiles have already been transferred to Russia.
Nuclear Collaboration and Strategic Partnership
In January 2025, Presidents Putin and Masoud Pezeshkian signed a comprehensive 20-year strategic partnership treaty in Moscow, aiming to deepen ties amidst Western sanctions. The treaty encompasses areas such as trade, military cooperation, science, education, and culture. It includes provisions for intelligence sharing and security collaboration but notably lacks mutual defense commitments.
There are concerns among Western nations regarding potential nuclear collaboration between Russia and Iran. Reports suggest that Iran is engaging in undisclosed diplomatic discussions with Russia to enhance its military and defense capabilities, including support for Iran’s nuclear program. This covert collaboration raises alarms about Iran’s intentions and possible advancements in its nuclear capabilities, facilitated by Russian expertise and technology.
The upcoming visit by President Putin to Tehran is expected to further solidify the strategic partnership between Russia and Iran, with implications for regional security dynamics and international diplomatic relations.
