RUSSIA’S SPECIAL OPERATION IN UKRAINE: A VIEW FROM TEHRAN

Since the first days of Russia's special operation in Ukraine leadership Islamic Republic Iran has demonstrated a benevolently neutral stance. Stressing unacceptability military action as means solving conflicts, Iranian side blames United States and European countries for unleashing war. They provoked Russia by bringing NATO forces closer to its borders, which led Showing correct understanding reasons start operation, official Tehran does not recognize annexation new territories Crimea Russia, emphasizing inviolability international borders. categorically denies allegations involvement actions stresses fact that it provide direct assistance any parties conflict. The stance significantly intensified Russian-Iranian cooperation and, some extent, minimized impact sanctions imposed on Russia. use Iran's economic transit potential provides an opportunity create export-import route. prospects joint industrial productions are being worked out. Trade exchanges expanding. reformist centrist condemn actions, criticize authorities deepening with hinders continuation negotiations between IRI restoration JCPOA.