Analysis

After setbacks in Syria and Turkish gains in Libya, Russia scrambles to retain Mediterranean sway

Moscow faces growing challenges coordinating in Libya and sustaining its regional presence after losing its key Syrian ally and confronting Ankara’s expanding influence.

By Anton Mardasov

Iran plans 20 satellites, test launch by end of 2025: What to know

Iran is seeking investment in its space agency and has made progress in developing satellites in the face of sanctions, though reliance on Russia remains a factor.

Iran

Analysis

'No real levers': Will Russia deepen Iran ties in South Caucasus over Trump plan?

Moscow tries not to publicly criticize Trump's initiatives, but in reality has too few tools for crisis response.

By Anton Mardasov

Russia, Iran in talks on construction of small nuclear plants: What to know

The comments by the head of Rosatom follow increasing cooperation between Iran and Russia on gas.

Iran

Analysis

How lessons from Iran, Ukraine are shaping US Army’s new missile defense plan

The Army's 2040 air and missile defense strategy aims to overcome gaps exploited by adversaries like Iran while heading off higher-tech advances from China and Russia.

By Jared Szuba

In Washington, DC, reporting on defense, national security, military

UAE president heads to Russia to meet Putin as ties grow: What to know

UAE President Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed al-Nahyan is heading to Moscow on Thursday for an official visit, his second in less than a year as Russian-Emirati relations continue to develop rapidly.

United Arab Emirates

Analysis

Pragmatism outweighs animosity as Syrian, Russian FMs bargain at Kremlin

Despite deep-rooted tensions and clashing interests, Syria’s interim leadership and Russia are finding common ground in a mutually beneficial bid to preserve influence and stability after Assad’s fall.

By Amberin Zaman

Reporting on geopolitics, minorities, human rights, culture

Syria FM heads to Russia in first high-level Moscow visit post Assad

As the new Syrian government looks to redefine its ties with Moscow, Russia aims to maintain its naval and air bases in Syria.

Syria

Analysis

Israeli FM's Ukraine visit signals shift from Russia to anti-Iran alignment

Israel has urged Ukraine to join forces against what it estimates is a joint enemy — the Iranian government.

By Rina Bassist

In Paris, reporting on Israeli politics and European affairs

Analysis

Iran's new satellite launch: Aerospace leap or Russia-backed mirage?

After nearly a decade of setbacks, Iran has launched its Nahid-2 satellite aboard a Russian rocket. Touted as a milestone in homegrown aerospace, the achievement also exposes Tehran's deepening — and increasingly uneasy — dependence on Moscow.

By A correspondent in Tehran

In Tehran, reporting on politics

Iran, Russia launch naval drills ahead of trilateral nuclear talks with China

Naval forces from Iran and Russia begin joint military drills in the Caspian Sea, reflecting deepening ties between the two countries that come just weeks after Iran’s 12-day war with Israel and the collapse of nuclear talks with the United States.

Iran

Iran's Araghchi doubles down on China, Russia ties at Shanghai meeting

Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi seized the opportunity at the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation summit in China to denounce Israeli and US attacks on Iran, rally diplomatic support against sanctions and warn of regional instability should the fragile ceasefire collapse.

Iran