Summary of the Day:
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky visited the United States on September 23, emphasizing Ukraine’s need for consistent US military aid. He toured the Scranton Army Ammunition Plant in Pennsylvania, discussing timely Western aid delivery and potential joint US-Ukrainian weapons production.
The Kremlin continues to signal disinterest in peace negotiations, with officials stating there’s “no alternative” to Russian victory in Ukraine. Russia declined to participate in Ukraine’s peace summit, suggesting it only considers total Ukrainian capitulation as acceptable.
Russian forces conducted their first glide bomb strikes on Zaporizhzhia City overnight on September 22-23, damaging residential buildings and injuring civilians. These strikes demonstrate an expansion of Russian strike capabilities and highlight Ukraine’s need for improved air defenses.
An unverified report claims that Yuri Annekov, a high-ranking Russian Aerospace Forces commander, committed suicide due to leadership conflicts and insufficient rest. The source alleged Annekov had tried to resist “chaos and disorder” within the VKS following Russia’s invasion of Ukraine.
Russian forces reportedly made advances near Hlyboke, Kupyansk, and Pokrovsk, while Ukrainian forces advanced in Kursk Oblast. Additionally, the Russian government is considering legislation to fine individuals promoting “child-free propaganda,” likely as part of efforts to address demographic concerns.
Picture of the Day:
Residents living in front-line villages in Donetsk Oblast are evacuated by train to cities in western Ukraine. Nataliia and her cat await the departure of a train after their house was bombed overnight. (Pierre Crom/Getty Images)
Beyond Ukraine – The March Towards World War
Recent developments across multiple fronts indicate a worrying trend of escalating global tensions, primarily centered around Russia’s actions and international responses. These events collectively contribute to a more volatile and unpredictable geopolitical landscape, raising concerns about the potential for conflict and the erosion of international stability.
Russia’s nuclear posturing remains a significant source of global anxiety. Deputy Foreign Minister Sergei Ryabkov’s recent statement on nuclear testing, while seemingly conciliatory, underscores the ongoing brinkmanship surrounding this issue. Despite Russia’s withdrawal from the Comprehensive Nuclear Test Ban Treaty, Ryabkov’s assurance that Russia won’t conduct tests if the US doesn’t highlights the delicate balance of deterrence. Experts view this rhetoric as a tactic to discourage Western support for Ukraine, rather than a genuine threat of nuclear weapon use. Nevertheless, such statements contribute to an atmosphere of tension and mistrust on the global stage.
The Russian government’s push to criminalize “Russophobia” represents a concerning attempt to extend its legal reach beyond its borders. This draft law, which would allow prosecution of foreign officials for alleged discrimination against Russians or Russian supporters, even when committed outside Russia, is a clear escalation in Moscow’s efforts to influence international discourse. By targeting NATO members and countries resisting Russian influence, this move threatens to further strain diplomatic relations and potentially lead to increased international legal conflicts.
Information warfare continues to be a key strategy in Russia’s geopolitical playbook. The recent misinformation campaign about flooding in southwestern Poland, as reported by Polish cyber defense officials, exemplifies the ongoing use of hybrid warfare tactics. This deliberate attempt to sow discord and undermine trust in Polish institutions highlights the persistent threat of information warfare in destabilizing neighboring countries and eroding social cohesion.
The international community’s response to Russian aggression remains complex and sometimes contradictory. French President Emmanuel Macron’s call to reconsider relations with Russia after the Ukraine war ends signals a potential shift in European geopolitics. While Macron has taken a firmer stance by providing military support to Ukraine, his emphasis on reimagining Europe’s future and reforming international bodies suggests a long-term perspective that may not align with more hawkish views. Meanwhile, some Western countries, including Hungary and Slovakia, have suggested preparing for eventual normalization with Moscow, highlighting the divergent approaches within the Western alliance.
Lithuania’s recent arms deal with U.S. company Northrop Grumman and Germany’s Rheinmetall represent a significant shift in the European defense landscape. These agreements, aimed at producing ammunition and strengthening Lithuania’s defenses against potential Russian threats, are part of a broader trend of militarization among EU states in response to Russia’s invasion of Ukraine. This arms build-up, while intended as a deterrent, could potentially lead to an arms race and heightened regional tensions.
The recent incident involving Japan’s use of flares to warn off a Russian reconnaissance aircraft marks a dangerous escalation in military encounters. This unprecedented action by Japan, in response to multiple airspace violations by the Russian Il-38 aircraft, underscores the growing tensions in the Asia-Pacific region. The incident, possibly linked to planned Russia-China military exercises, highlights the potential for miscalculation leading to broader conflict in an already tense geopolitical environment.
These developments collectively paint a picture of a world edging closer to conflict, with increased military activity, legal maneuvering, and information warfare contributing to a volatile international environment. The situation demands careful diplomatic navigation to prevent further escalation and maintain global stability, as the risk of miscalculation or unintended consequences grows with each provocative action or counteraction.
The Path to Peace
In a series of high-profile diplomatic engagements, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky addressed the UN’s Summit of the Future in New York, presenting a forceful case against Russian aggression and its global repercussions. During his speech, Zelensky accused Russia and its “accomplices” of undermining global unity, while simultaneously unveiling Ukraine’s “victory plan” to world leaders.
The Ukrainian leader used the international platform to call for widespread support in countering what he described as Russia’s destructive influence. In a move to galvanize diplomatic efforts, Zelensky extended invitations to nations to participate in the upcoming global peace summit for Ukraine.
As part of his U.S. visit, Zelensky is scheduled to meet with President Joe Biden at the White House on September 26. The meeting is expected to focus on Zelensky’s five-point plan, which reportedly includes a proposal for Ukraine’s rapid accession to NATO.
Meanwhile, the Kremlin has adopted a hardline stance, signaling that it will not accept any peace deal that falls short of Ukraine’s total surrender. This position was underscored by Kremlin Spokesperson Peskov, who stated there is “no alternative” to Russian victory and labeled NATO and the West as enemies.
President Zelensky responded to these developments by asserting that Russia shows no interest in reasonable peace terms. He noted that Russia has declined to attend Ukraine’s peace summit, a decision echoed by Russia’s Foreign Ministry, which has refused to participate in future peace summits.
These actions from Moscow suggest that Russia may be using peace negotiations as a pressure tactic to force Ukraine into making concessions on its sovereignty and territory. The stark contrast between Ukraine’s diplomatic outreach and Russia’s unyielding stance highlights the complex challenges facing international efforts to resolve the ongoing conflict.
Situation On The Land, Sea, and Air in Ukraine
Russian authorities have begun construction of tall metal towers on Tuzla Island in the Kerch Strait, according to recent reports. These structures, standing approximately 30-35 meters high, are intended to house Pantsir air defense systems. The installation of these towers is part of a broader effort to enhance defense measures in occupied Crimea. In addition to the air defense systems, Russian forces are also deploying electronic warfare assets and establishing observation posts in the region. These developments indicate a significant bolstering of military infrastructure on the strategically located island in the Kerch Strait.
Ukrainian Operations in the Russian Federation – Initiative None
Ukrainian forces have reportedly made progress in their offensive operations near Glushkovo in Russia’s Kursk Oblast, according to recent reports. On September 23, Ukrainian troops were said to have advanced to the outskirts of Veseloye, located southwest of Glushkovo. Russian sources also reported Ukrainian attacks in the vicinity of Novy Put and Medvezhye, south of Glushkovo.
In a significant development, Ukraine’s 95th Separate Polissia Air Assault Brigade claimed a second breakthrough along the Ukrainian-Russian border in Kursk Oblast on the same day. The brigade released drone footage purportedly showing Ukrainian forces advancing through a minefield towards Russian positions near Glushkovo. However, an analyst suggested that the footage might actually depict an earlier breakthrough near Medvezhye from September 11-12. The exact location and timing of this operation have not been independently verified.
The offensive operations continued on September 23, with Russian sources reporting Ukrainian attacks near several villages in the region. These included Lyubimovka, Darino, and Nikolayevo-Darino, southeast of Korenevo; Malaya Loknya, north of Sudzha; and Plekhovo, southeast of Sudzha. Despite these reported activities, there were no confirmed advances by Ukrainian forces on this day.
Simultaneously, Russian forces were also reported to be conducting offensive operations in the Ukrainian salient in Kursk Oblast, though without confirmed advances. A Russian military blogger claimed progress towards Plekhovo, but this information remains unverified. Various Russian military units, including naval infantry and airborne forces, are reportedly active in the area, with a particular focus on operations near Lyubimovka.
Kharkiv Front – Initiative Russia
In recent developments along the Russo-Ukrainian front, Russian forces north of Kharkiv City have reportedly shifted their focus to defensive operations. This change in strategy is believed to be a response to Ukraine’s incursion into Kursk Oblast. Russian troops are now fortifying their positions along the Hlyboke-Lyptsi line, with some units being redeployed from Kharkiv to Kursk to bolster defenses.
Despite this overall defensive posture, Russian forces launched an attack near Lyptsi on September 23, managing to make a small advance west of Hlyboke. Ukrainian forces in the area are facing additional challenges from Russian remote mining operations.
To the northeast of Kharkiv City, Russian forces continue to maintain offensive operations. They have been observed attacking near Vovchansk and Tykhe, while also strengthening their positions in the vicinity of Starytsya. Reports indicate that Russian troops are using the Aggregate Plant in Vovchansk for cover and employing thermobaric artillery and drones for supply operations.
A Ukrainian officer has stated that Ukrainian forces are currently unable to launch a large-scale counteroffensive in Vovchansk. This limitation is attributed to Russian advantages in both manpower and equipment, resulting in slow-paced urban combat in the area.
Luhansk Front – Initiative Russia
Russian forces have made advances southeast of Kupyansk, moving east of Kolisnykivka and Kruhlyakivka, according to recent reports. Along the Kupyansk-Svatove-Kreminna line, Russian troops launched attacks on multiple locations, including areas near Synkivka, Pishchane, Petropavlivka, and several towns northwest and southwest of Kreminna. In response, Ukrainian forces reportedly launched a counterattack towards Kotlyarivka. Russian sources claim significant progress near Nevske, though these reports remain unconfirmed. Additionally, Russian aviation is said to have targeted Ukrainian pontoon crossings on the Oskil River.
Donetsk Front – Initiative Russia
Siversk
Russian forces launched attacks near the settlement of Vyimka, southeast of Siversk, on September 22 and 23. Despite these assaults, no confirmed changes to the frontline were reported in this area.
Chasiv Yar
Russian forces continued offensive operations around Chasiv Yar on September 22-23, targeting nearby settlements including Hryhorivka, Kalynivka, Klishchiivka, Predtechyne, Stupochky, and Bila Hora. Despite these efforts, no confirmed changes to the frontline were reported.
Toretsk
Russian forces continued attacks near Toretsk on September 22-23, targeting the town itself and nearby settlements including Dachne, Nelipivka, and Shcherbynivka. A Russian military blogger claimed Russian forces occupied a waste heap in eastern Toretsk, while a Ukrainian observer reported Russian advances to central Toretsk from Pivnichne. However, no confirmed changes to the frontline were officially reported.
Pokrovsk
Russian forces advanced east of Pokrovsk on September 23, with confirmed progress north of Tsukuryne and east of Mykolaivka. Unconfirmed reports suggest further Russian advances in several nearby areas. Fighting continued in multiple settlements around Pokrovsk, including Vozdvyzhenka, Novotoretske, and Novohrodivka. A Ukrainian commander noted that Russian forces have adopted more mobile tactics in the area, using smaller infantry units to launch simultaneous attacks from multiple directions.
West of Donetsk City
Russian forces continued attacks west of Donetsk City on September 22-23, focusing on Heorhiivka. Some Russian sources claimed advances near Maksymilyanivka and the capture of Hostre, but these reports remain unconfirmed. Despite ongoing offensive operations, no confirmed advances were reported in this sector.
Southwest of Donetsk City
Russian forces have intensified their attacks near Vuhledar, reportedly aiming to capitalize on local successes to weaken Ukrainian positions. Unconfirmed Russian claims suggest advances northwest and west of Vodyane, as well as east of Vuhledar. Reports indicate that Russian forces may have captured the Pivdennodonbaska No. 3 mine west of Vodyane, potentially posing a threat to Vuhledar’s northeastern flank.
Fighting has also been reported near Katerynivka and in dacha areas east of Vuhledar. Russian sources claim advancements east and west of Vuhledar on September 23, with one source asserting that the Russian 40th Naval Infantry Brigade made a significant push from Prechystivka towards Vuhledar. Reports suggest that Russian forces are reinforcing their gains after allegedly capturing Prechystivka, while Ukrainian forces are said to be withdrawing from southeastern Vuhledar.
Russian drone, infantry, and artillery units are reportedly active in the area. The Ukrainian General Staff confirmed Russian attacks on Vuhledar and nearby Pavlivka on September 22-23. Ukrainian military observer Kostyantyn Mashovets suggested that Russian forces might increase their focus on Vuhledar following recent military restructuring. Mashovets also cautioned that Ukrainian society should be prepared for a potential withdrawal from Vuhledar, although no immediate plans for such a move were mentioned.
It is important to note that many of these Russian claims and reported advancements remain unverified at this time.
Zaporizhia Front – Initiative None
Zaporizhia-Donetsk Border Area
On September 23, Russian and Ukrainian forces continued to engage in positional battles near the Vremivka salient along the Donetsk-Zaporizhzhia Oblast border. The Russian Ministry of Defense reported fighting near Zolota Nyva, southeast of Velyka Novosilka, but stated that neither side gained new territory. No confirmed changes to the frontline were reported in this area.
Zaporizhia Line
Ukrainian and Russian forces engaged in ongoing battles near Robotyne and Novoandriivka in western Zaporizhzhia Oblast on September 22 and 23. Despite the fighting, no significant changes to the frontline were reported during this period.
Kherson (Dnipro River) Front – Initiative None
Brief fighting occurred on the eastern bank of the Kherson Oblast on September 22 and 23. No major changes in positions were reported.
Ukraine News
On the night of September 22-23, Russia launched a limited attack on Ukraine, employing both drones and missiles. Ukrainian officials reported successfully downing three drones and disrupting other weapons through electronic warfare measures. Russian sources, however, claimed to have struck energy facilities during the assault. Notably, a drone was detected near the Khmelnytskyi nuclear power plant, raising concerns about a possible simulated attack.
In a separate development, Ukraine has brought Russia before the Permanent Court of Arbitration, accusing it of violating maritime laws. Central to this dispute is the Crimean Bridge, which Ukraine argues must be demolished. Ukrainian officials contend that Russia is attempting to exert control over the Sea of Azov and Kerch Strait, utilizing the bridge to restrict international shipping.
The Crimean Bridge, a critical supply route for Russian forces, has been a target of Ukrainian strikes, sustaining damage in October 2022 and July 2023. Ukraine’s Military Intelligence Chief has suggested a “complex solution” to destroy the bridge in the coming months. However, Ukraine’s Navy has indicated that the bridge’s destruction may not have as significant an impact now, given Russia’s reduced military use of the structure. The legal case at the Permanent Court of Arbitration, initiated in 2016, is expected to take years to reach a resolution.
In Odesa, Ukraine’s State Security Service (SBU) reported neutralizing a “combat group” allegedly preparing to seize power under Russian orders. The group, led by a 49-year-old man from Crimea, had initially planned to take control of administrative buildings during Russia’s full-scale invasion. However, they were instructed to wait by Russia’s Federal Security Service (FSB) when the invasion faltered.
The SBU detained the leader and his associate, confiscating 70 firearms and various tactical equipment. The group had reportedly recruited over two dozen individuals, all of whom are currently under investigation. If convicted, they face up to 10 years in prison.
Innocent Victims Of War
The casualty count of civilians in the past 24 hours: (Russian War Crimes)
DEATHS: 6 INJURIES: 58+
Russian forces have significantly escalated their attacks on Ukrainian cities, with Zaporizhzhia City bearing the brunt of a new offensive strategy. On the night of September 22-23, the city experienced its first glide bomb strikes, resulting in seven airstrikes that damaged 13 residential buildings and two schools. The attacks left at least 22 people injured, including two children, and partially destroyed an apartment building. A subsequent strike on September 23 targeted critical infrastructure in the city.
The weapons employed in these attacks are believed to be either guided KAB glide bombs or unguided FAB-250 bombs equipped with additional modules, capable of reaching distances of 40-60 km. This is particularly concerning given that Zaporizhzhia City lies just 25-35 km from the frontline. Governor Ivan Fedorov reported that emergency services responded promptly, and the injured received medical attention. Local police confirmed a total of six strikes on the city.
The attacks on Zaporizhzhia continued on September 23, resulting in one fatality and seven civilian injuries, including two teenagers. Two houses were destroyed, and a fire broke out at an infrastructure site but was subsequently extinguished.
Donetsk Oblast was hit by two separate attacks. In one incident, Russian forces targeted Kramatorsk city and Shakhove village on September 23, leaving one person dead in Kramatorsk and injuring a total of 10 people, including two children in Shakhove. Numerous buildings sustained damage in both locations. In another attack on the region, one person was killed in Novoukrainka and two in Myrnohrad, with ten injured overall and damage to buildings reported in several towns.
Kharkiv Oblast saw two people injured in Shyikivka village. Kherson Oblast experienced attacks on 16 settlements, including Kherson city, resulting in one death and seven injuries.
These attacks have highlighted Ukraine’s limited ability to counter such weapons, underscoring the urgent need for improved air defense systems. Russian commentators have praised the attacks, calling for more strikes on logistics targets, indicating a possible shift in Russian military strategy.
Aftermath of a Russian Attack on Zaporizhia (Ukraine’s National Police)
Ukraine’s Allies
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has begun a week-long visit to the United States, emphasizing Ukraine’s urgent need for consistent military aid. On September 23, Zelensky toured the Scranton Army Ammunition Plant in Pennsylvania, discussing timely Western aid delivery and exploring potential joint US-Ukrainian weapons production. The visit also included talks on U.S. investments in Ukraine’s defense industry.
During his trip, Zelensky is set to present his “victory plan” to U.S. leaders, including a scheduled meeting with President Joe Biden at the White House on September 26. Speaking in Washington D.C., Zelensky stressed the critical nature of the next few months in Ukraine’s war against Russia, urging allies to act swiftly to determine the war’s outcome.
On the diplomatic front, Zelensky met with German Chancellor Olaf Scholz at the UN General Assembly in New York. Scholz reaffirmed Germany’s stance against allowing Ukraine to use German weapons for strikes within Russia, even if other countries lift their restrictions. The two leaders also discussed Ukraine’s peace roadmap and plans for a second global peace summit.
In another high-level meeting, Zelensky conferred with Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida during the 79th U.N. General Assembly. They focused on Japan’s support for Ukraine, particularly in the energy sector. Kishida announced an upcoming energy assistance package including transformers and generators. The leaders also addressed strategies to prevent Russian sanction evasion and mechanisms to transfer frozen Russian assets to Ukraine. Japan has committed over $12 billion in aid to Ukraine since Russia’s invasion and pledged an additional $4.5 billion for 2024 under a recent security agreement.
In a show of regional cooperation, Zaporizhzhia Oblast and Pennsylvania signed an agreement covering energy, agriculture, technology, and defense, with Pennsylvania pledging support for Zaporizhzhia’s reconstruction. This marks the sixth such agreement between Ukrainian regions and U.S. states.
Meanwhile, other nations continue to provide support to Ukraine. Denmark has allocated 130 million Danish kroner ($19.5 million) to help restore Ukraine’s energy infrastructure following Russian attacks. The funds will support emergency measures and equipment purchases, as announced by Danish Energy Minister Lars Aagaard during a G7 meeting on Ukraine’s energy security in New York.
The Netherlands is actively seeking partners to complete a Patriot air defense system for Ukraine after an unnamed country withdrew from an agreement. Dutch Defense Minister Ruben Brekelmans confirmed that the Netherlands has provided a radar system and will soon deliver three launchers but is still searching for countries to supply additional components.
In sports news, the International Chess Federation (FIDE) has decided to maintain the ban on Russian and Belarusian chess teams from international competitions. The decision, made on September 22, stems from Russia’s invasion of Ukraine in February 2022. While individual players from these countries can compete under a neutral FIDE flag, their national teams remain excluded.
Life in Russian-Occupied Ukraine
Russian forces are conducting military-patriotic training for Ukrainian children in occupied Mariupol. The Russian Ministry of Defense reported on September 22 that servicemembers and Donbas Cossacks are teaching children enrolled in Yunarmiya, a pro-Russian youth movement. The training includes lessons on avoiding unexploded ordnance and mines, while promoting Russian ideals.
Russia News
According to an unverified report from a Russian insider source, Yuri Annekov, the head of a VKS (Russian Aerospace Forces) communications center, has allegedly committed suicide in Balashikha, Moscow Oblast. The source claims that Annekov, who reportedly had 20 years of service, had expressed concerns about insufficient rest and leadership issues within the organization. The insider further alleged that Annekov had attempted to resist what was described as “chaos and disorder” in the VKS following Russia’s invasion of Ukraine. It is important to note that these claims have not been independently verified.
In a separate development, Russian authorities are taking steps to address the country’s demographic challenges through new legislation. A bill has been proposed to penalize the promotion of “child-free lifestyles.” This initiative, which received unofficial government backing on September 23, is seen as a response to Russia’s ongoing population concerns, which have reportedly been exacerbated by losses in the Ukraine conflict. The Kremlin’s focus on this issue underscores growing apprehension over long-term demographic trends in the country.
These events highlight the complex internal dynamics Russia is grappling with, spanning from alleged issues within its military structures to broader societal concerns about population growth and sustainability.
Russian Mobilization and Defense Industrial Base
The Russian military has formed a new mechanized assault group named “Fregat” (Frigate), primarily composed of crew members from the aircraft carrier Admiral Kuznetsov. Initially stationed in the Kharkiv region, the unit has since been relocated to the Donetsk region, where it is engaged in assaults near Pokrovsk. This redeployment, coupled with the assignment of Russian Aerospace Forces personnel to infantry roles in the Kursk region, highlights Russia’s persistent manpower challenges in its conflict with Ukraine. It’s worth noting that the Admiral Kuznetsov, Russia’s sole traditional aircraft carrier, has been out of commission since 2017 due to repairs and various incidents.
Russian authorities have implemented novel strategies to boost military recruitment. In Leningrad Oblast, officials dropped embezzlement charges against local leader Andrey Shornikov after he volunteered for combat duty in Ukraine. Concurrently, authorities in Bashkortostan have significantly increased enlistment bonuses for prisoners joining the war effort, raising the payment from approximately $2,205 to $5,430. These actions demonstrate Russia’s efforts to attract more fighters, including from unconventional sources.
In a related incident, Russian authorities reportedly filed administrative charges against family members of mobilized soldiers who staged a protest outside the Defense Ministry in Moscow on September 21, 2024. This action targets Russian wives and relatives who demonstrated, likely voicing concerns about their loved ones’ military service.
On the technological front, the Kalashnikov Concern, a state-owned Russian defense company, announced on September 23 the development of a new light machine gun, the RPL-20. The company plans to debut this weapon internationally at a defense exhibition in Baku, Azerbaijan, from September 24-26. Kalashnikov Concern also introduced the Alpa-E, a portable unmanned helicopter designed for quick assembly and transport in a standard car.
Russian sources reported the deployment of a new drone called “Prince Vandal Novgorodsky” in the Kursk area as early as August 13. This first-person view (FPV) drone is reportedly controlled via optical fiber, making it resistant to electronic warfare.
A Ukrainian drone commander reported on September 22 that Russian forces have adapted their armored vehicle protection against drone attacks. They’ve shifted from fully covering vehicles, which limited their combat effectiveness, to a new approach that allows for both troop transport and offensive operations near Ukrainian positions. The commander suggested that powerful Russian electronic warfare systems are likely preventing Ukrainian drones from effectively striking these vehicles.
Russia’s Allies
On September 23, the health ministers of Russia and Belarus signed a memorandum of understanding for medical cooperation during emergencies. This agreement, which has potential military applications, allows for the coordinated deployment of medical personnel and patient evacuation between the two countries. The move is seen as part of Russia’s broader strategy to increase its influence over Belarus, potentially paving the way for an expanded Russian military presence in the country.
Meanwhile, on the international stage, Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian addressed the UN General Assembly, denying Iran’s support for Russia’s invasion of Ukraine or the supply of ballistic missiles to Russia. Pezeshkian, who assumed the presidency on August 30, 2024, asserted that Iran was open to dialogue with Western countries and had not approved of Russian aggression.
However, these claims stand in contrast to recent confirmations by the United States. On September 10, U.S. officials confirmed that Russia had indeed received Iranian Fath-360 missiles. This confirmation has led to sanctions being imposed on Iran by Ukraine, the European Union, and the United States.
The discrepancy between Iran’s public stance and its actions reflects the complex nature of its relationship with Russia. Since the beginning of the Ukraine invasion in 2022, Iran and Russia have strengthened their military cooperation, with Iran providing thousands of Shahed kamikaze drones that have been used against Ukraine.
Source Material
Institute for the Study of War – understandingwar.org
The Kyiv Independent – kyivindependent.com
Kyiv Post – kyivpost.com