Russian Defense Minister Visits Iran After US Releases $6 Billion

The defense minister of Russia arrived in Iran for a meeting with Iranian military officials, one day after the United States released $6 billion of Iran's frozen funds.

Sergei Shoigu led a delegation of military representatives from Russia during his visit on Tuesday.

Shoigu was invited by Major General Mohammad Bagheri, who serves as the Chairman of the Chiefs of Staff of the Iranian Armed Forces.

The visit coincided with the release of $6 billion frozen for five years in South Korean banks due to US sanctions. The Biden administration's decision to unblock the funds has faced criticism from Republicans, experts, and many Iranian Americans. Some critics have pointed out that the money will enable Iran to produce more weapons and pose a higher threat level.

The Islamic Republic has been a significant military supporter of Russia in its war on Ukraine. Since last July, both Kiev and US officials have repeatedly expressed concerns over Iran's military shipments to Moscow, including the supply of kamikaze drones.

Despite overwhelming physical evidence, Tehran has insisted that it does not supply weapons to Russia.

The United States, the United Kingdom, the European Union, Australia, and New Zealand have all implemented multiple rounds of sanctions against Iran for drone shipments to Russia.