Iranian strikes on CIA facilities prompt questions about possible Russian role

US intelligence analysts are investigating whether Russia assisted Iran in recent drone attacks on CIA facilities in the Gulf, according to four anonymous sources familiar with US intelligence. While no firm conclusions have been reached, the precision and effectiveness of the strikes, coupled with Russia's broader technical support for Iran, are being considered as evidence. At least two CIA sites were struck in March, including the US embassy in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, and a facility in eastern Iraq. An internal memo from a Western intelligence agency suggests Russia likely played a role in targeting these facilities. Analysts suspect Russia enhanced Iran's Shahed drones, possibly by providing a more accurate satellite navigation system, the Kometa-M. "They share an interest in trying to reduce or eliminate US influence altogether in their self-designated spheres of influence," said Daniel Hoffman, a former CIA station chief, regarding the Russia-Iran partnership.