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Putin's 'hidden hand' likely helping Iran against Trump, UK defence secretary says
UK Defence Secretary John Healey says Russia shares drone tactics with Iran, enabling attacks on coalition bases and profiting from rising oil prices amid Middle East conflict.
During a trip to the UK's Permanent Joint Headquarters at Northwood on Thursday, John Healey warned Vladimir Putin’s 'hidden hand' is likely helping Iran.
After an initial transfer of Shahed drones to Russia, Tehran sold thousands of Shahed drones, and the tactics Russia developed in Ukraine are now aiding Iran, analysts say.
At RAF Akrotiri on Sunday, an Iranian-linked drone struck the base while British investigators examine its parts; British forces at Erbil air base recently shot down two UAVs though "A number did impact the camp," the officer told Mr Healey.
Rising oil prices have created a geopolitical windfall for Moscow as the International Energy Agency recommended releasing 400 million barrels while oil surpassed $100 a barrel and Tehran warned prices could reach $200 a barrel.
With investigators analyzing the Akrotiri drone for foreign parts, UK forces have flown over 300 pilot hours and HMS Dragon is en route to the Mediterranean.
Rising oil prices due to the war in Iran are helping the struggling Russian economy. Putin presents himself as a savior in energy matters. Does this strategy of his work?
New explosive allegations from London: The British Minister of Defence sees Russia behind parts of Iran's war strategy in the Middle East. Especially the use of drones is reminiscent of Russian tactics from the Ukraine war.