WASHINGTON: The US on Tuesday accused the Russian paramilitary group, Wagner of providing air defense equipment to the Lebanese group, Hezbollah, or Iran.
White House’s National Security Council spokesman John Kirby during a webinar told reporters that Wagner, at the direction of the Russian government, was planning to provide an air defense capability to either Hezbollah or Iran.
He added the US would closely monitor any transfer of military equipment and would respond with sanctions.
John Kirby said that the US is prepared to use its counterterrorism sanctions against Russian individuals or entities if they make destabilizing transfers.
The US official further said that Iran could face more sanctions for its support for Russia’s war in Ukraine.
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He said that the US will expose and disrupt Russians and Iranians expanding military collaboration with its allies and partners.
He added that the defense partnership between Iran and Russia is not good for citizens in Ukraine and not good for the region of Middle East.
US to monitor Russia-Iran relationship closely
John Kirby went on to say the US will monitor this relationship closely and will take appropriate action if required.
He said the US has been seeing enhanced military cooperation between Russia and Iran.
“Iran may be preparing to go a step further in its support for Russia,” said Kirby, saying that Iran is planning to provide Russia with ballistic missiles.
He said that Tehran in return would get unprecedented defense support.
