Mon Sep 09 15:44:14 UTC 2024: ## Iran Accused of Supplying Ballistic Missiles to Russia, Ukraine Threatens to Sever Ties
**Kiev, Ukraine:** Ukraine has summoned a senior Iranian diplomat to express strong concerns over reports that Tehran has supplied Russia with ballistic missiles. The Ukrainian Foreign Ministry, in a statement released on Monday, warned of “devastating and irreparable consequences” for bilateral relations if the reports are confirmed.
The statement comes after several media outlets, including CNN and the Wall Street Journal, cited unidentified sources claiming Iran had transferred short-range ballistic missiles to Russia. While a senior Iranian official dismissed the claims as “psychological warfare,” a European Union spokesperson described the information as “credible.”
The EU spokesperson, Peter Stano, stated that such a delivery would represent a “substantial material escalation” in Iran’s support for Russia’s war in Ukraine. He added that the EU would respond with “new and significant restrictive measures” against Iran if the reports are confirmed.
The US has also reportedly shared information with its allies about the alleged transfer, and is expected to make the information public soon. A NATO spokesperson echoed the EU’s sentiment, stating that such a transfer would be a “substantial escalation.”
Russia, however, has denied the reports. Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov acknowledged seeing the reports but stated that “not all such reports are correct.” He emphasized that Russia and Iran are “important partners” and are actively developing their trade and economic relations.
Ukraine has previously expressed concerns over the deepening military cooperation between Iran and Russia, calling it a threat to Ukraine, Europe, and the Middle East. The Ukrainian government has urged the international community to increase pressure on both countries.
This potential transfer of ballistic missiles marks a significant escalation in the conflict, raising concerns about the potential for increased violence and a wider geopolitical crisis. The international community is closely monitoring the situation and awaiting further confirmation of the reports.
First Piper 