russia's security council secretary arrived in Iran, presumably to discuss next weapons supply
Secretary of the National Security Council of russia Mykola Patrushev arrived in Tehran for a meeting with Iranian political and economic high-ranking officials
This was reported by the State News Agency of the Islamic Republic.
Patrushev has already met with the secretary of the Supreme National Security Council of the Islamic Republic of Iran, Ali Shamkhani, who emphasized the "importance of strengthening cooperation between the two countries."
In particular, Shamkhani suggested strengthening cooperation in energy, transport, agriculture, trade, banking, and the environment.
However, analysts of the Institute for the Study of War (ISW) suggest that the real purpose of Patrushev's visit is different — he probably came to Tehran to discuss the purchase of Iranian ballistic missiles.
For its part, according to ISW analysts, Tehran seeks to "publicly announce the change in the balance of its strategic partnership with moscow" to Israel and Saudi Arabia, with which the kremlin cooperates.
Patrushev's visit also comes amid reports that the Iranian regime is seeking russia's help in suppressing ongoing protests in the country.
Reference
The Institute for the Study of War believes that russia is trying to circumvent Western sanctions with Iran's help.
On July 19, the President of the russian federation, vladimir putin, met in Tehran with the President of Iran, Ebrahim Raisi. The countries signed a memorandum of cooperation in the field of air transportation. In particular, both countries' airlines can carry out cargo flights without capacity restrictions. In addition, the export of Iranian parts and equipment to russia was agreed upon. Iran's centers will provide repair and maintenance services and technical support to russian aircraft.
Iran acknowledged the delivery of drones to the russian federation before the invasion of Ukraine.
However, Ukraine's military intelligence representatives found information that may indicate that Iranian drones were supplied to russia after February 24.
