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Iran and Russia Strengthen Ties Ahead of Trump’s Return
In a significant diplomatic development, Russian President Vladimir Putin and Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian are set to formalize their partnership during a meeting in Moscow. Scheduled for January 17, 2025, this meeting comes just days before President-elect Trump’s anticipated return to the Oval Office.
Pezeshkian, who recently assumed the presidency after a runoff election in July, is making his inaugural visit to Moscow. His discussions with Putin will focus on enhancing cooperation across several sectors. Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov commented on the importance of this partnership, stating, “Iran is an important partner for us with which we are developing multifaceted co-operation.”
During their discussions, the leaders are expected to address the strategic development of transit corridors aimed at streamlining trade and facilitating energy negotiations. According to Bloomberg, while Iran has ambitions of becoming a key hub for Russian gas, progress on this initiative appears limited at present.
Amidst these developments, National Security Adviser Jake Sullivan highlighted the Biden administration’s belief that it is leaving Moscow, Beijing, and Tehran in a weakened position before Trump’s reentry into power. He noted that even while these nations ramp up their international engagement, the U.S. is fostering a safer environment at home.
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As sanctions from the West continue to shape Russia’s external relationships, the Kremlin has shifted its focus toward bolstering ties with countries that share its anti-West sentiment, notably Iran and North Korea. The partnership between Russia and Iran has notably deepened since Russia’s military incursion into Ukraine, escalating geopolitical tensions.
Keith Kellogg, the incoming special envoy for Ukraine and Russia under the Trump administration, has called for a return to a “maximum pressure” strategy against Iran. He emphasized the need for international solidarity in support of the Iranian populace and their democratic aspirations during a recent event organized by the National Council of Resistance of Iran in Paris.
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Amid widespread concern regarding the partnership agreement, Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov assured that it should not raise alarms. He stated, “This agreement, like our treaty with North Korea, is not directed against anyone,” as reported by Sky News.
This follows Putin’s earlier meeting with North Korean leader Kim Jong Un, where a new aid pact was signed, further consolidating their alliance in the wake of the ongoing conflict in Ukraine.
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As the geopolitical landscape shifts, U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken expressed concerns regarding Russia’s increasing desperation to forge ties with countries that can support its military endeavors, particularly in Ukraine. He reaffirmed the U.S. commitment to countering the assistance that nations like Iran and North Korea provide.
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