Putin knew about US plans in Iran but did nothing to help - Bloomberg

Israeli officials had hinted to Russian authorities about the seriousness of their intentions toward Iran several weeks before the operation.

According to media reports, this explains why Moscow limited itself to verbal criticism rather than taking any real steps to protect Tehran.

Why Russia didn't help

Russia has limited leverage in the situation. Although Putin and Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian signed a strategic cooperation pact in Moscow in January 2025, it does not include a mutual defense clause, unlike Russia’s agreement with North Korea.

After Israel attacked Iran’s nuclear facilities in June last year, Putin said Tehran had not requested defensive assistance from Moscow.

Additionally, Russia lacks sufficient military resources:

• The fifth year of the war in Ukraine has depleted its weapons stockpiles.

• The failure of Iran’s S-300 air defense systems during US and Israeli strikes was a public blow to the reputation of Russian weapons.

Putin also needs stable relations with the United States to achieve his goals in Ukraine, which likely explains why he avoids direct accusations against Trump. According to a source cited by the outlet, this is another reason Russia did not defend Iran.

What Russia gains and loses

The Middle East conflict benefits Putin in several ways. First, US strikes on a sovereign state without UN authorization give Moscow an argument to justify its own aggression against Ukraine. The Kremlin equates Washington’s actions in Iran with Russia’s actions in Ukraine.

Second, the conflict diverts Western attention and redistributes resources. US-made missiles are now prioritized for the Middle East rather than Kyiv—a development already described as bad news for Ukraine.

Third, tension around Iran pushes oil prices higher. Despite sanctions, Russia remains a major oil exporter, and every dollar increase boosts the Kremlin’s military budget.