Iran-Russia Relationship from a Russian Perspective (2005-2013)

This paper explores Iran-Russia relations under Ahmadinejad. In that era, Russian-Iranian relationship was under the shadow of the Iran nuclear file. Hence, the question is to what extent this relationship was based on strategic considerations. Investigating bilateral relations between Iran and Russia indicates that the relationship has been mainly influenced by Russian interests and desires, rather than the common interests of both countries. By adopting a pragmatic approach based on a strategic opportunism in the framework of its approach toworld politics, Russians pursued three major goals in bilateral relations with Iran: 1-being recognised as a power world, 2-gaining economic benefits and interests, and 3- increasing the effectiveness of its geopolitical and strategic influence. Thisagenda can clearlybeidentified inRussia’s relationship with Iranin thedifferentareas and subjects during Ahmadinejad’s presidency.