The Pentagon has confirmed that Iranian personnel are present in Ukraine to assist Russia with its drone operations, according to Pentagon Press Secretary Air Force Brig. Gen. Pat Ryder. During a media briefing, Ryder emphasized that the drones being used are of Iranian origin, despite Iran’s denials of supplying them for use against Ukraine.

Ryder criticized the rhetoric from both Iran and Russia, which attempts to obscure the origin of the drones. He stated, “It’s just indicative of the kinds of rhetoric that you hear coming from Iran and from Russia, trying to say that these are not Iranian drones when they clearly are.” He further explained that these drones serve as psychological weapons intended to instill fear, but strategically, they do not alter the fact that Russian forces are struggling to maintain their positions on the ground.

The Department of Defense remains committed to supporting Ukraine by working with allies and partners to provide necessary security assistance. Ryder highlighted recent discussions between Secretary of Defense Lloyd J. Austin III and the Ukrainian minister of defense, as well as with other international allies, focusing on enhancing Ukraine’s air defense and other critical capabilities.

Ryder also pointed out Iran’s broader role in exporting terror, not only in the Middle East but now extending to Ukraine. He remarked, “We continue to see Iran be complicit in terms of exporting terror — not only in the Middle East region, but now also to Ukraine.” This statement underscores the global implications of Iran’s actions.

In a related note, Ryder mentioned the B-21 Raider, a new long-range, stealth bomber that will gradually replace the B-1 and B-2 aircraft, reinforcing the Air Force’s bomber fleet. He described the B-21 as a formidable combat capability for future contested environments.

General Says Iranian Drones, Troops Operating in Ukraine > U.S. Department of War > Defense Department News | U.S. Department of War