After the “Shahed” drones, Ukraine significantly reduced the Iranian embassy: what the current relations are like

Ukraine threatens diplomatic measures if Iran deepens cooperation with Russia

Ukraine is ready to take diplomatic measures if Iran and Russia strengthen cooperation, particularly in the military sphere. This was stated by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Ukraine in response to a request from LIGA.net.

Relations between Ukraine and Iran have undergone significant changes after Iran provided Shahed drones to Russia in September 2022. In response, Ukraine reduced diplomatic relations with Iran, stopping the accreditation of the Iranian ambassador and reducing the number of embassy staff in Kyiv. However, diplomatic channels to contain Iran’s rapprochement with Russia are maintained through the Ukrainian mission in Iran.

Ukraine keeps opportunities for diplomatic influence open if Iran confirms the supply of ballistic missiles or another type of weapon to Russia. Representatives of the Ukrainian Ministry of Defense, including the military attaché, constantly analyze Iran’s military and technical cooperation.

In February 2023, the Ukrainian attaché was at the center of a scandal due to participation in a meeting with the commander of Iran’s Air Force to mark the anniversary of the Islamic Revolution. A representative from Belarus, a country known for its support of Russia, was also present at the event.

Despite challenging political relations, the Ukrainian embassy in Tehran continues to operate, particularly for informational work with Iranian authorities on the inadmissibility of transferring weapons to Russia. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Ukraine also explained that the embassy in Belarus continues to function to reduce the risks of Minsk’s integration into the Russian-Ukrainian conflict.