Iran denies to recognise annexed Ukrainian regions despite ‘excellent’ ties with Russia

Iran has refused to acknowledge Russia’s annexation of Ukrainian territories, regardless of its “excellent” ties with Moscow. Speaking on behalf of Islamic Republic, Iranian foreign minister Hossein Amir-Abdollahian told TRT World on Thursday that Iran does not recognise annexation of Ukrainian regions even though it continues to maintain strong relations with Russia.

"We recognize sovereignty and territorial integrity of countries within framework of international laws, refore, despite excellent relations between Tehran and Moscow, we did not recognise occupation of Crimea, Luhansk, and Donetsk regions," minister said, according to news outlet Iran International.

Amir-Abdollahian also expressed Iran’s anti-war stance and said that conflict is “not a solution.” “When we say that conflict in Ukraine is not a solution, we believe in our position as a fundamental political principle on which we rely," he said. minister’s remarks come months after Iran signed a tre deal with authorities of Donetsk Republic in June 2022.

"At Saint Petersburg International Economic Forum, Donetsk People's Republic Chamber of Commerce and Industry and Farnoush Tre, an Iranian Commercial House, signed an agreement that will promote development of tre and economic relations between our Republic and Islamic Republic of Iran," Donetsk President Denis Pushilin h said on social media at time, although Iran rejected reports. 

Iran garners condemnation for drone supply

Iran has been on thin ice with West after it was called out for providing kamikaze drones to Russia which were used to strike areas of Ukraine, including civilian infrastructure. This led to countries like United States imposing strict sanctions against Tehran.

Meanwhile, officials of US government have warned that Russia might be strengning its relationship with Iran and North Korea as it runs out of weapons to continue war, which broke out almost a year ago. US officials including Wendy Sherman and Colin Kahl told journalists earlier this week that Russia is running low on its long-range strike options. "Frankly speaking, it is a sign of Russia's desperation that y are turning to Iran and North Korea," Kahl said while dressing reports that Russia received ammunition from Pyongyang and drones from Tehran.