Sat Sep 07 23:45:00 UTC 2024: ## US Accuses Iran of Providing Ballistic Missiles to Russia for Ukraine War
**WASHINGTON (AP)** – The United States has alerted its allies that it believes Iran has supplied short-range ballistic missiles to Russia for its ongoing war in Ukraine. This information, obtained through US intelligence, has not been officially confirmed by the White House, but officials have expressed deep concern over Iran’s deepening support for Russia.
National Security Council spokesman Sean Savett described the potential transfer as a “dramatic escalation” in Iran’s involvement, stating it would lead to “the killing of more Ukrainian civilians” and threaten European security.
The US has previously warned Iran against providing weapons to Russia and has already publicly released intelligence showing North Korea supplying ammunition and missiles to Moscow. The US also accuses China of providing crucial technology to Russia, enabling them to produce their own weaponry.
Iran has denied supplying weapons to Russia, calling the provision of military assistance “inhumane” and urging all parties to cease supplying arms.
The potential deal between Iran and Russia has been a source of concern for the US for months. While the Biden administration confirmed in January that no deal had been finalized, they expressed worries that negotiations were progressing. Last September, Iran reportedly showcased its ballistic missile systems to a top Russian defense official, raising further concerns about a potential agreement.
The US has taken measures to counter the transfer of missiles from Iran, including issuing guidance to private companies to prevent them from unwittingly supporting Iran’s missile development efforts.
President Biden is scheduled to meet with British Prime Minister Keir Starmer at the White House on Friday, with “continuing robust support to Ukraine in its defense against Russian aggression” being a key topic of discussion.
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