Russian President Vladimir Putin, during a meeting with leaders of major global media organizations organized by the Russian News Agency TASS, said that Russia had offered Iran projects for cooperation in air defense, but Tehran showed little interest.
The Russian leader stated:
“As you know, we once offered our friends in Iran the opportunity to cooperate on an air defense program. At the time, our partners did not show much enthusiasm. Regarding the agreements on our practical cooperation that you mentioned, there are no military-related provisions included. That’s the second point. The third is that our Iranian friends are not requesting it. In short, there is nothing to discuss.”
On the night of June 13, Israel launched Operation Rising Lion, aimed at destroying Iran’s nuclear weapons development program. Within less than 24 hours, Iran retaliated.
In the days that followed, Tel Aviv and Tehran continued to exchange missile and drone strikes. Both sides confirmed casualties from the attacks and vowed further retaliation, though neither disclosed the full extent of the damage.