It is in Ukraine’s clear interest that Iran emerges as a stable market democracy. Russia prefers the United States to be militarily engaged in Iran for as long as possible. Moreover, for Russia (and China), it is highly important that the current Iranian government remains in power. At the same time, Operation Epic Fury exposes Russia’s weaknesses. Ultimately, the war in Ukraine remains the only area where Putin can attempt to show superiority and escalate, despite lacking the means to do so.