Volodymyr Zelensky reports Ukrainian drones struck Russian vessels in the Caspian Sea during growing Iran-Russia military cooperation.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky confirmed that Ukrainian drones struck two Russian vessels carrying military cargo in the Caspian Sea over the weekend. The targets included a Russian missile boat and a cargo ship transporting military supplies from Iran to Russia. Iran countered that one of its own commercial vessels was hit, resulting in one seafarer killed and three others injured. This incident highlights the growing strategic importance of the Caspian Sea as a trade and military corridor between Iran and Russia. As the US blocks Iranian ports in the southern waters, the Caspian serves as a strategic complement to existing maritime routes. The region is less vulnerable to international sanctions because it is largely controlled by neighboring states. Ukraine's strikes demonstrate its growing long-range capabilities and its goal to damage the industries supporting Russia's war effort. The strikes also acknowledge Iran's significant role in supplying Russia with weapons, such as Shahed drones and ballistic missiles. These actions occur as Zelensky prepares to travel to Washington to meet with President Trump.