Trump to ask Putin about alleged Russian help for Iran targeting US bases

U.S. President Donald Trump announced he would directly question Russian President Vladimir Putin regarding allegations that Russia is assisting Iran in targeting U.S. assets in the Middle East. The statement comes after Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky claimed Moscow has been supplying Tehran with satellite imagery of U.S. and Gulf military installations, which he correlated with Iranian strikes.

During a press briefing on Air Force One, Trump addressed Zelensky's claims, stating, "We'll find out if that's true. I'll ask Putin about it. We'll find out." He also downplayed the potential impact of any Russian assistance, referencing the U.S. invasion of Venezuela where Russian-supplied air defense systems were ineffective against American attacks. Trump reiterated his belief that Russia has not been providing significant support to Iran, and if they have, it has been "very unimpactful."

Reports indicate that Russia has provided intelligence and weapons to Iran since the commencement of the U.S.-Israeli war. U.S. General Dan Caine confirmed in April that Russia is supporting Iran in the conflict. Despite this, the White House has largely minimized the significance of Russia's role. Russia and Iran have continued to strengthen their military ties, with Iran supplying drones and equipment to Russian forces in Ukraine, and Russia reportedly shipping weapons to Iran.

Zelensky's comments on Russia sharing satellite imagery with Iran coincided with Ukrainian forces striking an Iranian vessel in the Caspian Sea that was allegedly transporting military cargo between the two nations. Zelensky is reportedly scheduled to meet with Trump next week to discuss a diplomatic push for a peace deal with Russia.