Iran's transfer of ballistic missiles to Russia: White House comments
John Kirby (Getty Images)
Iran's supply of ballistic missiles to Russia has yet to be officially confirmed by Washington. These missiles pose a significant threat to Ukraine, according to US National Security Council Coordinator for Strategic Communications John Kirby.
"I cannot confirm the reports that the transfer has happened," he said.
At the same time, he said that any such supply of such technologies "would not only have a deleterious effect on the Ukrainians’ ability to continue to defend themselves — and certainly on the lives and livelihoods of Ukrainians — but could, depending on what the deal — how it’s consummated, have — have equally deleterious effects on the Middle East."
According to him, Iran is advancing its ballistic missile program and would like to benefit from a partnership with Russia to enhance their capabilities in the region.
"And, of course, given all their destabilizing activities, that’s a dangerous outcome," Kirby added.
Iran's missile supply to Russia and world's reaction
The Wall Street Journal reported that Russia received short-range ballistic missiles from Iran. According to The WSJ, the US has informed its allies of Iran's move.
The US State Department has already said that the US and its partners are ready to take serious measures against Iran over the possible transfer of short-range ballistic missiles to Russia.
The EU has already received intelligence confirming Iran's supply of ballistic missiles to Russia. The EU may impose new sanctions on Iran if such missile deliveries are confirmed.
