The Iranian Role in the Russian-Ukrainian War (A Study of Opportunities and Determinants

Abstract

    The most significant repercussions of the Russo-Ukrainian war were on the course of negotiations related to the Iranian nuclear issue. Moscow initially played the role of mediator between Tehran and Washington. Meanwhile, Moscow did not express real fears of Iran possessing nuclear weapons or of a potential rapprochement with Washington. Meanwhile, Iran believed that strengthening its alliance with Russia at this stage could guarantee it greater strategic support against its adversaries. Multiple reports indicated that Iran supplied Russia with drones during the war. Tehran also established a drone factory in Tajikistan in May 2022 and strengthened its military presence in the Arabian Gulf and the Sea of Oman through air maneuvers. Iran exploited the Russo-Ukrainian war as a strategic opportunity to reorganize its priorities and employ its hard tools, most notably drones, to build new alliances and strengthen its position in global security and political equations. Despite the challenges it faces, Iran continues to strengthen its position through pragmatism in its alliance with Russia and flexibility in utilizing its technological and military power.