Russia is supplying Iran with Shahed drones, Zelenskiy says - Reuters

Reuters
March 15, 2026
3 min read

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Russia is now supplying Iran with Shahed drones, reversing their typical weapons flow.

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Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy has accused Russia of supplying Iran with Shahed drones, marking a significant shift in the military relationship between the two countries. This represents a reversal of the typical flow of drone technology, as Iran has been a major supplier of Shahed drones to Russia for use in its war against Ukraine since 2022. The alleged weapons transfer could strengthen Iran's military capabilities amid ongoing tensions with Israel and Western nations over its nuclear program and regional activities. Russia and Iran have deepened their defense cooperation since both countries face extensive Western sanctions. If confirmed, this development would signal Moscow's willingness to provide advanced military technology to Tehran despite international efforts to restrict Iran's access to such weapons systems.

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