Multiple outlets reported in early March 2026 that Russia is providing Iran with targeting intelligence on the locations and movements of US warships, aircraft, and radar systems — directly endangering American service members fighting in the Iran war.
The Washington Post first reported on March 6 that Russia is sharing satellite data helping Iran identify specific US bases, military personnel locations, and logistics flows. This intelligence could help Iran more effectively target American forces — seven US service members had already been killed.
Trump's response was to dismiss the reports entirely. He said he had “no indication of that whatsoever” and added, “If they are, they're not doing a very good job, because Iran is not doing too well.” His special envoy Steve Witkoff went further, saying of Russia's denial: “We can take them at their word.”
Defense Secretary Hegseth offered the only measured response, warning Russia “should not be involved.” But the president's dismissal of intelligence that Russia is helping an enemy target American troops — combined with his envoy's suggestion to simply trust Russia's denial — is a dereliction of the commander-in-chief's duty to protect US forces.