Tipping Point Quick Hits (11.17.22)

Russia and Iran meet, lifespan enhancement for dogs, and the Fed's digital dollar

Ties are Deepening Between Russia and Iran

Russia is struggling in its invasion of Ukraine, having been forced to retreat from a humiliating setback in Kherson, a city it annexed illegally in September. Iran is facing its own struggles, as its women-led uprising has engulfed the country, spreading to 140 cities and towns as the most significant challenge to the Islamic Republic in years.

Both nations are on their heels and turning to each other for support.

Last week, Russian President Vladimir Putin spoke to Ebrahim Raisi, President of Iran. They spoke of the possibility of political, trade and economic cooperation. The leaders pledged closer ties with each other, according to this article:

The visit took place following accusations by Ukraine and the West that Russia has used Iranian drones to target Ukraine's energy infrastructure.

Iran says it sent Russia a small number of drones before the war began. Last month, two senior Iranian officials and two Iranian diplomats told Reuters that Iran had promised to provide Russia with surface-to-surface missiles.

The two countries have been collaborating closely since Russia intervened in Syria in 2015, and that relationship has continued as Russia used Iranian drones on Ukrainian cities. Iran values its relationship with Russia, and vice versa.