Russia alliances: Nine countries that could back Putin as war fears ramp up

Iran

Iran is among Mr Putin’s allies with a deep-seated distrust of the west.

Moscow and Tehran have enjoyed close cooperation for decades and recently reforged their relationship in a January meeting.

Presidents Ebrahim Raisi, while visiting the Russian capital in January, said he hoped the two could usher in a “turning point” for bilateral relations.

The content of their talks settled primarily on business rather than military cooperation, however.

Iranian ministers said discussions around transportation, energy, trade and banking sectors could soon bear fruit.