Two American security and intelligence sources have told Reuters that Qassem Soleimani, the commander of the Quds Force of the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC), who is under United Nations sanctions, has traveled to Russia. Soleimani has been on the UN Security Council's sanctions list since 2007, which includes a travel ban to other countries. According to a report on Friday, August 7, by Reuters, the American news network Fox News reported on Thursday that Soleimani arrived in Moscow on July 24 and met with Russian President Vladimir Putin and Defense Minister Sergei Shoigu. Fox News reported that the Quds Force commander left Moscow three days later. Meanwhile, the Russian news agency RIA Novosti reported that the Kremlin spokesperson denied the reports of Soleimani's meeting with Putin. In this context, an American intelligence and security source told Reuters, 'The Fox News report is correct, but the details provided, particularly regarding Soleimani's discussions in Russia, are vague and unclear.' At the same time, an Iranian official confirmed in an interview with Reuters that the Quds Force commander traveled to Russia and discussed with senior officials of the country. This Iranian official, who requested anonymity, stated that Soleimani traveled to Moscow in the second half of July and negotiated with Russian officials regarding regional issues, the export of S-300 missiles, and other weapons to Iran. A senior U.S. government official also stated that despite the nuclear agreement between Iran and six world powers, sanctions against Soleimani remain in place. He added, 'We will continue to impose sanctions against the IRGC, the Quds Force, including its commander Soleimani, and all networks associated with this force.' Two officials from the Russian Foreign Ministry told Reuters that they could not confirm or deny Soleimani's presence in Moscow. Russian Defense Ministry officials also declined to comment on this matter. The U.S. placed Soleimani on its sanctions list in 2007 due to his role in supporting terrorism, and the European Union also sanctioned the Quds Force commander in 2011. The Quds Force is the IRGC's overseas branch.
Qassem Soleimani Has Visited Russia Despite UN Sanctions
Qassem Soleimani, under UN sanctions, reportedly visited Russia and met with high-ranking officials, including President Putin. While the Kremlin denies the meeting, U.S. sources confirm the visit but note the details are unclear. This visit raises questions about international sanctions and Iran's military dealings.
👥 Key Players
⚡ Actions
📰 What Happened
Qassem Soleimani traveled to Russia for discussions despite UN sanctions.
- Qassem Soleimani travel Russia
- Qassem Soleimani meeting Vladimir Putin, Sergei Shoigu
- Qassem Soleimani negotiate Russian officials
💡 Why It Matters
📚 Background
Soleimani's visit underscores Iran's strategic partnerships despite international isolation.
📝 Key Evidence
🏷️ Entities Mentioned
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