Russia and Iran
Partners in Defiance from Syria to Ukraine
Charts the evolution of the Russia–Iran relationship in the twenty-first century, from tenuous alignment to robust partnership.
Description
Vladimir Putin’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine in 2022 has cast a spotlight on Russia’s burgeoning
Despite a relationship historically marred by mistrust and unmet expectations, the two regimes have worked together to promote their common interests in Syria, where battlefield coordination soon developed into much deeper political alignment. Drawing on extensive Russian and Persian primary sources, and interviews with elites from both countries, Nicole Grajewski uncovers the drivers of ever-closer cooperation between the Kremlin and the Islamic Republic. Detailing the internal structures, shared anxieties and broader ambitions underpinning this alignment, she explores the genesis of Russia and Iran’s mutual antagonism towards the Western-led global order; the impact of deep-seated leadership concerns over regime security and domestic protests; and the future trajectory of the partnership within the larger world order.
Examining both military dynamics and economic endeavours, as well as elaborate sanctions evasion schemes and collaboration within international organisations, this is the definitive account of contemporary Russia–Iran relations.
Reviews
‘Grajewski brilliantly dissects the history and anti-Western imperative of the “partnership of defiance” between Russia and Iran. Meticulous research enriches this unique and incredibly timely exposition of how historical grievances were overcome by the confluence of interests. A major contribution to international affairs and the study of illiberal regimes.’ — Laura Kennedy, former US ambassador to Turkmenistan
‘A deeply insightful and fascinating account charting the Russian partnership with Iran, its history and role in shaping geopolitical developments in the Middle East, and beyond.’ — Michael Kofman, Senior Fellow, Carnegie Endowment for International Peace
‘A thorough analysis of the evolution of the Russia–Iran partnership. Underpinned by historical context and detailed examination of recent geopolitical events, it provides a fresh understanding of this relationship. Compelling and well supported by evidence, Grajewski’s arguments go beyond a mere descriptive account to critically assess the broader consequences of these ties.’ — Hamidreza Azizi, Visiting Fellow, German Institute for International and Security Affairs
‘A very important book. Grajewski’s ability to work with both Russian and Farsi sources is especially impressive, and gives Russia and Iran greater authority than books written by other authors. It is ambitious in scope and her argument is compelling.’ — Mark N. Katz, Professor Emeritus of Government and Politics, George Mason University
Author(s)
Nicole Grajewski is a fellow in the Nuclear Policy Program at the Carnegie Endowment for International Peace, and an associate researcher with the Belfer Center’s Project on Managing the Atom, Harvard Kennedy School of Government. She received her PhD and MPhil from the University of Oxford. She speaks Russian, Persian and French.
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