US says Russia’s Wagner to provide air defense for Hezbollah or Iran
QAMISHLI, Syria (North Press) – The White House revealed on Tuesday that Wagner Group, a paramilitary organization funded by Russia, is preparing to provide an air defense system to either the Lebanese Hezbollah or Iran in “unprecedented defense cooperation.”
National Security Council spokesman John Kirby addressed reporters, stating, “Our information suggests that Wagner, under the direction of the Russian government, was making arrangements to supply an air defense capability to either Hezbollah or Iran.”
According to US officials cited by The Wall Street Journal earlier this month, Wagner is allegedly planning to provide the Pantsir-S1, a Russian self-propelled anti-aircraft gun and missile system known as SA-22 by NATO, to the Lebanese Hezbollah.
Kirby further emphasized that the US is prepared to utilize counterterrorism sanctions against Russian individuals or entities involved in such destabilizing transfers.
He also revealed that Iran was “considering providing Russia with ballistic missiles now for use in Ukraine in return for that support.”
The Wagner Group has emerged as a significant force in Russia’s military efforts over the past decade. Initially operating in the shadows, it gained prominence during the Arab Spring and the Euromaidan crisis in Ukraine. Led by Yevgeny Prigozhin, a prominent figure from Russia’s criminal underworld with ties to the Kremlin who died in a plane crash in August, the Wagner Group has transformed into a slickly marketed brand-name paramilitary.
The group is believed to have entered Syria in mid-2015, shortly after Russia officially intervened in the Syrian conflict to support Syrian President Bashar al-Assad. Their initial deployment was likely in response to the escalating conflict and the need for additional military support for the Syrian government forces. The group participated in several significant battles and military operations alongside the Syrian government forces.
In September, Russian Defense Minister Sergei Choigou paid an official visit to Iran, described as a significant step for military cooperation between the two allies.
Both countries are subject to international trade sanctions and have fostered close relationships in various sectors.