Trump says Putin may be helping Iran 'a bit'

March 13, 2026

President Trump acknowledged in a Fox News interview that Russia may be providing some assistance to Iran during the ongoing US-Israel conflict with Tehran, comparing it to American support for Ukraine in its war with Russia. Multiple reports suggest Russia has been sharing intelligence about US military positions with Iran, including coordinates of ships and aircraft that could be used for targeting attacks, though a US envoy stated Russia denied this. Trump downplayed the significance of any potential intelligence sharing, noting Iran's struggles in the conflict.

Who is affected

US military forces (whose locations are allegedly being shared)
Iran (receiving potential intelligence assistance)
Russia (subject of sanctions relief and intelligence sharing allegations)
Ukraine (receiving US intelligence assistance)
Global energy market participants (affected by Russian oil sanctions relief)
The Trump administration and US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent
US Special Envoy Steve Witkoff
Kremlin special envoy Kirill Dmitriev

What action is being taken

Russia is allegedly sharing intelligence about US military locations with Iran
The US is helping Ukrainian forces with intelligence for targeting
The US has moved to temporarily lift sanctions on Russian oil
The conflict between the US-Israel and Iran is ongoing (entering its third week)

Why it matters

This situation highlights the complex web of international alliances and conflicts, where major powers exchange intelligence support with their respective allies even while in confrontation with each other. The alleged Russian intelligence sharing could significantly enhance Iran's military capabilities against US forces, as Iran has limited satellite capabilities of its own. The US decision to lift oil sanctions on Russia despite these intelligence concerns demonstrates how economic pressures and energy market stability can override security concerns, potentially strengthening Russia's position while it allegedly aids a US adversary.

What's next

No explicit next steps stated in the article

Read full article from source: BBC