The White House is concerned that Iran may supply Russia with ballistic missiles for use against Ukraine

The White House expressed concern on Tuesday that Iran may provide Russia with ballistic missiles for use in its war against Ukraine, which would be disastrous for the Ukrainian people, according to a US national security official.

According to National Security Council spokesperson John Kirby, Iran has already provided Russia with unmanned aerial vehicles or drones, guided aerial bombs, and artillery ammunition, and may be preparing to "go a step further in its support for Russia."

Kirby cited a September meeting in which Iran hosted Russian Defense Minister Sergei Shoigu to demonstrate a variety of ballistic missile systems, which alarmed the US.

"We are therefore concerned that Iran is considering providing Russia with ballistic missiles now for use in Ukraine," Kirby said during a conference call with reporters. "In return for that support, Russia has been offering Tehran unprecedented defense cooperation, including on missiles, electronics and air defense."

The United States claims that the Kremlin's reliance on Iran and North Korea — countries largely isolated on the international stage due to their nuclear programs and human rights records — demonstrates desperation. This is despite Ukrainian resistance and the global coalition's success in disrupting Russian military supply chains and denying replacements for weapons lost on the battlefield. According to the White House, Russia has turned to North Korea for artillery.

According to US officials, Iran has also supplied Russia with artillery and tank rounds for its invasion of Ukraine.