As the 2015 Nuclear Non-proliferation treaty (JCPOA) expires, Russia signaled strong support for Tehran. Days after a senior Iranian official met President Vladimir Putin, Moscow announced all remaining UN restrictions on Iran will formally expire on October 18. Russia said it will continue bilateral cooperation with Iran and criticized the UK, France, and Germany for attempting to revive sanctions. This came as U.S. President Donald Trump cited the June strikes on Iranian nuclear sites, where 30 Tomahawk missiles were launched from submarines. This came as Zelensky met Trump in Washington, D.C. to secure commitments for the long-range cruise missiles. During Zelensky’s October 17 White House visit, Trump suggested diplomacy over escalation, while Russia’s recent statements underline its backing of Tehran amid growing geopolitical tensions. The developments highlight a complex triangular dynamic between Washington, Moscow, and Tehran, as nuclear capabilities, sanctions, and military deterrence shape the evolving Middle East and Eastern Europe security landscape.
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