Kanal13Russia plans to supply its strategic partner Iran with approximately 5,000 fiber-optic FPV drones. These weapons could soon be used against the United States and its regional partners. The authoritative publication The Economist reported this . The newspaper obtained a classified document from a reliable source confirming that Moscow is preparing significant military aid to Tehran. The Russians have offered the Iranians not only FPV drones but also training. “Russia has offered to provide Iran with drones and training in using them against American forces in the Persian Gulf and possibly elsewhere,” the article says. The proposal also suggests recruiting drone operators from among 10,000 Iranian nationals studying in Russian universities, as well as other groups with relevant language and regional ties, including Tajik and Syrian communities.
Analysts cited by the publication described the plan as the first indication that Moscow was prepared to supply Iran with large quantities of advanced drone technology that could significantly impact military operations in the region. It remains unclear whether the proposal was fully implemented or whether Iran has already received drones under the arrangement.
The development comes amid broader reports of deepening military cooperation between Russia and Iran, including intelligence sharing and logistical support during regional Middle Eastern conflicts.
Ukrainian officials have previously said Russia has provided Tehran with satellite intelligence and military assistance on Israeli energy targets. The data shared by Moscow covered approximately 50 to 53 sites, all of which are part of Israel’s civilian infrastructure. President Volodymyr Zelensky drew a direct parallel between these actions and Russia’s long-standing campaign against Ukraine’s power and water systems.
“Of course, all the experience Russia gained during the war against Ukraine is being passed on to Iran,” Zelensky said.
The potential transfer of advanced drone systems highlights growing concerns over the expansion of Russia‑Iran strategic coordination and its implications for global security. In April, Russian dictator Vladimir Putin, during a meeting with Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi, stated his readiness to support Tehran and praised the Iranian people for their “resistance” to the US and Israel. Moscow previously offered to mediate between Iran and the United States, and also initiated the idea of storing Iranian enriched uranium as a way to reduce tensions, but Washington rejected this proposal. Russia has emerged as the main winner in the US-Iran war over the easing of oil sanctions. This statement was made by former US Vice President Kamala Harris during a meeting with Democratic Party leaders in Nevada. Harris accused the Trump administration of weakening Ukraine and taking actions that indirectly contributed to Russia’s strengthening. Specifically, Harris noted changes in Washington’s sanctions pressure and military priorities. According to Harris, easing sanctions allows Russia to profit from oil supplies “that would otherwise be prohibited from being sold.” The former vice president also stated that artillery, ammunition, and air defense systems that the US is sending to fight Iran could be transferred to Ukraine. She noted that the American people did not want a war with Iran, and Congress did not approve military action, but even if it had, it should not have been started. Harris called war with Iran “nonsense,” drawing laughter and applause from the audience.
The politician added that the conflict with Iran is costing the US not only its credibility but also “billions of dollars.” The war is also driving up gas prices and causing “suffering for the American people,” Harris said.
