Authors

Discussion

This study examines the evolution of Iran’s strategic partnership with Russia during Vladimir Putin’s administrations and its impact on the Middle East’s geopolitical landscape. Since 2000, Putin’s foreign policy has aimed to restore Russia’s global influence and counter U.S. dominance, identifying Iran as a critical regional partner. The partnership—defined by mutual security interests and cooperation in defense, energy, and diplomacy—has deepened through milestones such as the annulment of the Gore–Chernomyrdin Agreement and the sale of the S-300 defense system. During Putin’s third term, the Syrian civil war became a turning point, as both states sought to preserve the Assad regime and limit Western intervention. Following the 2022 war in Ukraine, their cooperation further expanded through arms transfers and drone collaboration. This paper argues that Iran–Russia relations under Putin have transformed from pragmatic coordination into a strategic partnership shaped by converging geopolitical, economic, and security interests.

Keywords: Iran, Russia, strategic partnership, Putin, Middle East, Syria, Ukraine