It is ironic that as the Russian invasion of Ukraine enters its fourth year, Putin condemns American strikes on Iran and the killing of the Ayatollah as a “cynical violation of all norms of human morality and international law.” In reality, however, American military action in Iran seems likely to benefit Putin’s regime.

With oil prices at $100 per barrel, Russia’s reserves will become even more valuable, all while American attention is diverted from Ukraine. Additionally, Iran has increasingly collaborated with Russian intelligence services, which have been providing information about the locations of U.S. military assets, including warships and aircraft, thereby putting American lives at risk.

Although Putin may present himself as someone who believes this war is a tragedy and should end as soon as possible, it is actually in Russia’s best interest to keep the U.S. entangled in Iran for the foreseeable future.