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Iran Engages in Secret Talks With Russia to Strengthen Nuclear Ambitions

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Iran Engages in Secret Talks With Russia to Strengthen Nuclear Ambitions
Russian leader Vladimir Putin (L) meets with Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei (R) during the Gas Exporting Countries Forum (GECF) Leaders' meeting in Tehran on November 23, 2015. (Source: Getty Images)

Iran has been conducting secret diplomatic missions to Russia to enhance its military and defense capabilities, according to The Times report on January 13.

Despite ongoing negotiations with the West regarding the revival of the nuclear deal, these covert discussions point to a deepening relationship between Tehran and Moscow.

Ali Larijani, a senior advisor to Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei and a key figure in nuclear negotiations, has reportedly been making undisclosed flights to meet with high-ranking Russian officials. The purpose of these meetings is to secure Russian assistance for Iran’s nuclear program and air defense systems.

The secret flights, involving a staunch regime ally, signal a further strengthening of Iran-Russia ties, with both countries exerting mutual influence. This development occurs at a critical time for Iran, which has seen a loss of influence in the Middle East and faces ongoing economic challenges due to Western sanctions.

While Iran has resumed nuclear talks with Europe, aiming to reintegrate itself into the global political sphere, the renewed secretive cooperation with Russia raises concerns. Intelligence sources suggest that Tehran is seeking additional Russian support and expertise in nuclear matters, building on a long-standing collaboration that has included the supply of nuclear fuel to Iran.

A source from Western intelligence told The Times that, as the two nations solidify their strategic partnership, Russia’s dependence on Iranian missile and drone supplies has raised concerns. There are fears that Moscow may be willing to cross previously established “red lines” regarding Iran’s nuclear ambitions.

Furthermore, Iran is reportedly looking to acquire the latest version of the Su-35 fighter jet and to upgrade its air defense systems. The country has also requested logistical support from Russia, leveraging Moscow’s significant presence in the region to rearm Hezbollah militants, whose weapons stockpile was heavily damaged by Israeli strikes.

Earlier, French intelligence chief Nicolas Lerner and MI6 head Richard Moore warned that Iran’s potential nuclear escalation poses a critical threat in the coming months. Speaking in Paris, they highlighted the importance of intelligence collaboration between France and the UK to address the growing risk of nuclear proliferation.

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