Russia's reputation as a reliable ally in Iran has been severely impacted by the death of Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, marking a fresh outbreak of hostilities in the Middle East. The death highlights Iran's junior role in its partnership with Russia, while Moscow's focus is on the Ukraine war. While Iran has provided Russia with weapons for its war in Ukraine, Moscow has since localized production of its Shahed offshoots. Trade with non-sanctioned partners like China and India remains more crucial. The two countries have deepened military cooperation since the outbreak of the Ukraine and have reportedly filed orders for Russian Mi-28 helicopters and Su-35 fighter jets. However, military support has limited.