Free Republic

MOSCOW — Russian President Vladimir Putin on Thursday praised his country’s relations with Iran at a meeting with his Iranian counterpart Ebrahim Raisi, as the two discussed the Israel-Hamas war in the Gaza Strip. Since launching its assault on Ukraine in February 2022, Moscow has sought to deepen its economic and political ties with Tehran, both of which have been sanctioned by the West. “Our relations are developing very well. Please convey my best wishes to leader [Ayatollah Ali] Khamenei,” Putin told Raisi, referring to Iran’s head of state. “Thanks to his support, we have gained good momentum over the...

Russia is slated to send Iran advanced fighter jet and attack helicopters, reports say. Iranian state media says the agreement will strengthen the country's air force. The deal comes amid US warnings that Moscow and Tehran are increasing their defense cooperation. Russia has agreed to send advanced fighter jets and attack helicopters to Iran in a deal that would provide a significant boost to the country's air force, Iranian media reports. The reported agreement comes as the US expresses greater concern over what it describes as increasing defense cooperation between Moscow and Tehran. A top White House official said last...