Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has accused Russia of sharing satellite images of a U.S. air base in Saudi Arabia with Iran before a March 26 attack. The claim, based on Ukrainian intelligence, alleges Russia photographed the Prince Sultan Air Base three times in late March, suggesting premeditated targeting. The attack wounded American troops, though injuries were not life-threatening.
Zelenskyy, speaking in Qatar, asserted that Russia's repeated surveillance indicates imminent attack planning. However, NBC News could not independently verify the intelligence summary. Separately, European allies have told U.S. diplomats that Russia is aiding Iran's military efforts beyond public acknowledgment, including drone technology transfers. The U.K. and France have noted growing Russian-Iranian defense cooperation, though U.S. officials downplayed its operational impact.
Ukraine has previously accused Russia of providing Iran with signals intelligence, while the U.S. has confirmed Russia's support for Iran's drone program. The allegations highlight tensions between Russia, Iran, and Western powers amid ongoing conflicts in Ukraine and the Middle East.