Ukraine threatens to sever diplomatic ties with Iran over missile deployment

Ukraine warned on Tuesday that it may cut diplomatic ties with Iran if reports of Russia using Iranian-supplied ballistic missiles in its attacks on Ukraine are confirmed, labeling such support as "unacceptable."

US Secretary of State Antony Blinken had earlier suggested that Russia recently acquired these missiles from Iran, over two years after the full-scale invasion began, and is expected to deploy them in the coming weeks.

Iran has denied any involvement in supplying the missiles.

Ukraine, already dealing with an uptick in Russian missile and drone strikes, has expressed that confirmed missile transfers would have severe repercussions for its relations with Tehran.

Foreign Ministry spokesman Heorhiy Tykhyi indicated that Kyiv is considering all diplomatic options in response, though specific measures were not disclosed to maintain Ukraine’s strategic position.

While President Volodymyr Zelenskiy did not directly address Iran in his latest video address, he vowed to unite global efforts to hold accountable any country aiding Russia.

"We will do everything not just to defend our state and people but to consolidate the world for strong responses to those inciting or prolonging this war," Zelenskiy said.

Ukraine's allies, including the United States, have condemned any missile deliveries to Russia as a significant escalation, pledging further sanctions on Iran.

Top Ukrainian officials have called for more decisive military support, including the authorization to target military assets within Russia, longer-range missiles, and enhanced air defense systems.