Russia, Iran sign 20-year strategic partnership treaty

Russian President Vladimir Putin and Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian have signed a comprehensive strategic partnership treaty aimed at deepening political and economic ties between their countries. This agreement comes just days before President-elect Donald Trump's inauguration, reflecting a unified stance against Western policies and sanctions. The treaty encompasses commitments to closer defense cooperation, as well as initiatives in trade, energy, and logistics, with both nations looking to bolster their influence amid international isolation. This partnership is particularly significant for Iran, which is increasingly reliant on Russia for military technology and economic support as it faces geopolitical challenges in the Middle East. Analysts note that the timing of the pact underscores the urgency for both leaders to navigate the anticipated shifts in U.S. foreign policy under Trump. Overall, the agreement marks a further solidification of ties between Russia and Iran, which have grown stronger since the onset of the Ukraine conflict in 2022.