U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken has disclosed that Russia has acquired ballistic missiles from Iran, potentially altering the dynamics of the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. Speaking at a press conference in London on September 10, 2024, Blinken expressed concern over the growing cooperation between Moscow and Tehran, which he believes poses a threat to European security.
Blinken stated, "Russia has now received shipments with these ballistic missiles, and will likely use them within weeks in Ukraine, against Ukraine." This information, based on intelligence shared with U.S. allies and partners, suggests a significant escalation in the conflict that began over two and a half years ago.
The acquisition of Iranian missiles could enable Russia to target locations further from the front lines in Ukraine, potentially expanding the scope of the conflict. Blinken emphasized that this development demonstrates Iran's destabilizing influence beyond the Middle East.
In response to these developments, the United States plans to impose new sanctions on Iran, including measures against Iran Air, the country's national airline founded in 1961. Other nations are expected to follow suit with their own sanctions.
"This development and the growing cooperation between Russia and Iran threatens European security and demonstrates how Iran's destabilizing influence reaches far beyond the Middle East."
The announcement comes as part of a broader pattern of sanctions against Iran, which have been in place since 1979. The situation is further complicated by Russia's reported sharing of technology with Iran, including in nuclear-related areas.
Blinken's statements were made ahead of a planned visit to Kyiv, the capital of Ukraine, alongside British Foreign Secretary David Lammy. This diplomatic mission underscores the ongoing international concern over the Russia-Ukraine conflict, which has persisted since February 2022.
The situation highlights the complex web of international relations, with roots tracing back to the establishment of diplomatic ties between Russia and Iran in 1521. It also brings attention to the role of the U.S. State Department in managing foreign policy and international relations in an increasingly interconnected world.
As tensions continue to escalate, the international community watches closely, with particular focus on the potential impact of these developments on European security and the broader geopolitical landscape.