Zelenskyy Claims Iran, Not Russia, Operated the Initial 'Shahed' Drones.

Ukrainian President Details Iranian Support for Russia's War

According to UATV: During a press conference in Bucharest, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy stated that Iran is actively supporting Russia in its war against Ukraine. He specified that Iran supplies weapons to Russia, including attack drones, and has granted licenses for their production. This confirms a pattern of ongoing cooperation between the two nations, which has become a significant factor in the conflict's logistics.

Zelenskyy emphasized that the operators of the 'Shahed' drones used in the conflict were not Russian citizens.

"We know how the first 'Shaheds' were launched. There were no Russian operators. The operators were from another country,"

Iran's Critical Role in Russia's Military Campaign

The Ukrainian President also remarked that 'Iran has long been an ally of Russia, both on paper and in real actions.' These words underscore Iran's importance to Russia's military efforts against Ukraine and point to the serious threat posed by such support. This alliance challenges Western sanctions regimes aimed at isolating Russia.

The military collaboration between Iran and Russia could significantly impact the dynamics of the conflict in Ukraine. Iranian support manifests not only in the supply of armaments but also in the training and preparation of operators, which enhances the effectiveness of drone warfare at the front. This, in turn, may lead to new challenges for the Ukrainian armed forces and for the international community observing the region's developments.