Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy gave a sharp response to growing threats from Iran in an interview with Sky News. The head of state stated that Tehran is already effectively participating in the war against Ukraine by supplying Russia with weapons and technology.
A 'New Base' for the Kremlin
During the conversation, journalists asked the Ukrainian leader whether there is a risk of a direct military attack by Iran on Ukrainian territory amid aggressive statements from Tehran. Zelenskyy replied that it is incorrect to speak of a risk of a future attack, as aggression has already occurred, albeit in a different form.
According to the President, Iran has provided Russia with access to new technologies and weaponry since the beginning of the conflict. Specifically, this refers to 'Shahed' drones. In the first year of the war, Tehran transferred thousands of such drones to Moscow, and then went even further — transferring licenses for their production.
'Is this not an attack on us? I think it is,' Zelenskyy summarized, emphasizing that the transfer of technology and weaponry for the destruction of Ukrainian infrastructure constitutes direct participation in the war.
Who else has joined the conflict
The Ukrainian leader also touched upon the role of North Korea. He noted that Pyongyang, like Iran, is actively supporting Russia with military supplies. Throughout the invasion, these countries have transferred drones, missiles, and 155mm artillery shells to the Kremlin. Zelenskyy emphasized that these actions took place without any provocations or warnings from Kyiv.
Separately, the President mentioned the large-scale involvement of North Korean military personnel, noting that approximately 10,000 DPRK soldiers are already involved in the war. 'Iranians and North Koreans have already attacked us,' he stated.
Deterrence Strategy
Despite the obvious aggression from Tehran and Pyongyang, Zelenskyy stated that Ukraine is trying to act cautiously to avoid opening new fronts. However, in his opinion, it is pointless to hide the obvious facts of these countries' participation in the war. The President also emphasized the need to be prepared for the possibility that threats may escalate, and this readiness must be ensured right now.
Response to the ship strike
Tensions in relations with Iran have intensified following an incident in the Caspian Sea. Tehran accused Ukraine of striking its ship, resulting in the death of one sailor and injuries to another.
Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araqchi called Kyiv's actions a 'gross violation of the UN Charter.' He also claimed that the strike was carried out at the behest of Israel with the aim of dragging Europe into the war, and promised retaliatory measures. In response to Zelenskyy's statement, Iranian media began threatening Ukraine with ballistic missile strikes.
