Ukraine's Zelenskyy Exposes Iran: Thousands of 'Shahed' Drones and Production Licenses Handed to Russia.

Iran's Supply of 'Shahed' Drones to Russia

According to UATV: Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has revealed that Iran has supplied Russia with thousands of 'Shahed' attack drones, which are being used to strike targets in Ukraine. According to him, Tehran has delivered between 1,200 and 1,300 of these drones and also granted licenses for their local manufacturing. Zelenskyy further stated that Iran helped Moscow set up two factories dedicated to producing these unmanned aerial vehicles.

On March 17, the Russian military launched an assault on Ukraine using 178 attack drones, with 22 of them hitting 12 separate locations. The president emphasized that Iran's involvement goes beyond just shipments; it includes training Russian personnel on how to operate the drones effectively.

'We reached out to the Iranians at the intelligence level. We asked them not to supply weapons to Russia. We told them that if the delivered 'Shaheds' kill our civilians, the Iranian regime would become an ally of Russia. They replied: 'No, no, we are not allies in this. We sold the Russians only one batch of 'Shaheds.' That will be 1,200 or 1,300 drones, and that's it. No more deliveries will follow.' But they lied.' — Volodymyr Zelenskyy

Iran's Role in Escalating the War in Ukraine

Zelenskyy also highlighted that 'they provided them not only with thousands of these drones — they handed over the licenses to produce 'Shaheds.' They helped Russia build two factories for manufacturing these drones and initially oversaw their deployment while training the Russians.' These statements underscore the gravity of the situation and Iran's direct contribution to hostilities against Ukraine.

The president's remarks reflect the intensifying conflict in Ukraine and bring attention to its international dimensions, particularly the growing collaboration between Russia and Iran. The supply of drones and technical assistance from Iran could significantly alter the battlefield dynamics, increasing risks for civilians. Ukraine continues to call on the global community for support in countering aggression that is being reinforced by external partners of Russia.