European intelligence agencies believe Russia is in the final stages of preparing to supply drones to Iran for use in its conflict with the US and Israel, according to a senior European official. The official, speaking anonymously, said Russia has already been sharing intelligence with Tehran to help target US forces, but the delivery of explosive-laden drones would mark the first evidence of lethal support since the war began.
The Financial Times reported that Western intelligence findings indicate Russia is close to completing a phased shipment of drones, medicine and food to Iran. Discussions between Iranian and Russian officials reportedly began days after US and Israeli attacks on Tehran in late February, with deliveries possibly completed by mid-next week.
Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov dismissed the claims as “fakes”, but acknowledged ongoing dialogue with Iranian leadership. Russia and Iran signed a strategic partnership agreement last year, and Moscow has sent over 13 tonnes of medicine to Iran via Azerbaijan.
European foreign ministers raised the issue at a G7 meeting in France with US Secretary of State Marco Rubio. German Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul accused Russia of helping Iran identify strike targets, saying President Putin hopes the Iran war distracts from his Ukraine campaign. British Foreign Minister Yvette Cooper expressed deep concern over longstanding Russia-Iran links in drone capabilities.
Moscow’s growing involvement risks escalating the conflict, which critics—including some US allies—have labelled as illegal with ill-defined objectives. Tehran has already fired thousands of attack drones across the Gulf, hitting sites in multiple countries, claiming to target US interests.
