Russia and Iran Sign New Treaty, Cementing Military and Economic Ties
Ahead of Trump’s Return to Power
MOSCOW: Russia and Iran are poised to sign a new treaty on Friday, cementing their military and economic ties, a pact between two of the world’s most heavily sanctioned nations that is likely to alarm the West.
Leaders Meet Ahead of Signing
Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian and Russian counterpart Vladimir Putin met earlier at the Kremlin, where both praised the new accord ahead of the signing. "This will give us the opportunity to give additional momentum to almost all areas of cooperation," Putin told Iranian counterpart Masoud Pezeshkian, who replied that the text would become a "solid foundation" for relations. Both presidents will give a joint press conference later, said the Kremlin.
Details of the Treaty
The details of the document have not been released, but the Kremlin has said it will strengthen Tehran and Moscow’s "military-political and trade-economic" relations. Moscow has looked to the Islamic republic as a strategic ally since sending troops into Ukraine in February 2022, worrying Western officials who see both as malign actors on the world stage.
Iran-Russia Trade Relations
Iran has already supplied Russia with self-detonating "Shahed" drones that Moscow fires on Ukraine in nightly barrages, according to Ukrainian and Western officials. Both have ramped up their trade in response to Western sanctions. The two sides had been working on a new treaty for years. Their current relationship is governed by a 2001 document they have renewed periodically.
"Constructive" Treaty
Tehran has given little detail on the new treaty, but has ruled out a mutual defence clause like the one included in Moscow’s pact with North Korea last year, Russian state media reported, citing Tehran’s top diplomat Abbas Araghchi.
Global Hegemony
Russian President Vladimir Putin has made building ties with Iran, China and North Korea a cornerstone of his foreign policy as he seeks to challenge what he calls as a US-led "global hegemony". Tehran has also sought closer ties with Moscow, after suffering a series of foreign policy setbacks last year. A rebel offensive overthrew Russian and Iranian-backed Syrian leader Bashar al-Assad last month, and a war between Israel and Tehran-ally Hezbollah substantially weakened the Islamist militant group.
Impact of the Treaty
The signing of the treaty is likely to have significant implications for global politics and security. The West, particularly the US, is likely to view the pact with skepticism, given the sanctions imposed on both Russia and Iran. The treaty is expected to strengthen military and economic cooperation between the two nations, which could potentially undermine Western interests.
Conclusion
The signing of the treaty is a significant development in the relations between Russia and Iran, two nations that have been subject to heavy sanctions from the West. The treaty is likely to cement their military and economic ties, and may have significant implications for global politics and security. The West, particularly the US, will be closely monitoring the developments, and may respond with further sanctions or diplomatic efforts to counter the growing influence of Russia and Iran.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What are the details of the treaty?
A: The details of the treaty have not been released, but the Kremlin has said it will strengthen Tehran and Moscow’s "military-political and trade-economic" relations.
Q: What are the implications of the treaty?
A: The signing of the treaty is likely to have significant implications for global politics and security. The West, particularly the US, is likely to view the pact with skepticism, given the sanctions imposed on both Russia and Iran.
Q: Will the treaty affect global trade?
A: The treaty is likely to strengthen trade relations between Russia and Iran, and may potentially impact global trade.