Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has claimed that Russian spy satellites photographed the Diego Garcia military base in the Indian Ocean, which houses UK and US forces, in the interests of Iran. He said the imagery was taken after Iran launched two ballistic missiles at the site, with one missile failing in flight and the other being shot down by the US Navy.
In a post on X, Zelensky detailed a pattern of Russian satellite activity from March 24 to 26, targeting military bases and infrastructure in the Middle East, including Prince Sultan Air Base in Saudi Arabia, Incirlik Air Base in Turkey, and Al Udeid Air Base in Qatar. He noted that none of the sites were in Ukraine, questioning who benefits when sanctions on Russia are lifted.
The Ministry of Defence has previously stated it is “highly likely” that Russia shared intelligence with Iran before the recent conflict. This latest allegation will heighten concerns over military co-operation between Moscow and Tehran.
Separately, UK ministers face pressure over a planned fuel duty rise as petrol prices soar following Iran’s blockade of the Strait of Hormuz. Education Secretary Bridget Phillipson said the government would decide closer to the time, while Conservative leader Kemi Badenoch urged domestic drilling instead of rationing.
