Russia Set to Mediate Talks Between US and Iran on Nuclear Issues

Russia has agreed to broker talks between the United States and Iran about Iran’s nuclear program and proxy support following a February call between Presidents Trump and Putin. Trump’s administration has shown willingness for negotiations, contrasting with a previous hardline approach. The strategic partnership between Russia and Iran adds complexity to these discussions, emphasizing the urgent need for diplomacy to prevent conflict.

Russia has reportedly agreed to facilitate discussions between the United States and Iran regarding Iran’s nuclear program and its support for hostile proxies. This initiative comes after a phone call in February between President Donald Trump and President Vladimir Putin, which aimed to initiate dialogue with Iran. Following this call, members of the Trump administration engaged in talks with their Russian counterparts in Saudi Arabia.

The Kremlin’s spokesperson, Dmitry Peskov, emphasized that Russia believes all issues between the U.S. and Iran should be settled through negotiations, and they are prepared to assist in this regard. An unnamed White House official indicated that Russia volunteered to mediate without being prompted.

Amidst this diplomatic move, Iranian officials have expressed openness to international assistance in resolving tensions. President Trump appears to be pursuing a more conciliatory approach towards both Russia and Iran, contrasting with the previous administration’s stance.

While the Trump administration has maintained a strategy of “maximum pressure” against Iran, this shift suggests an openness to negotiation over military confrontation. Trump’s previous withdrawal from the nuclear deal in 2018 did not prevent Iran from escalating its nuclear activities, and now a diplomatic solution may be on the table.

Ryan Costello of the National Iranian American Council noted that mediation is critical to avert conflict, emphasizing the urgency of negotiations as relations between the U.S. and Iran appear to be deteriorating. Russia’s role as a mediator has been consistent through past U.S. administrations.

Additionally, given the strategic partnership treaty signed between Russia and Iran, the context for Russia’s involvement becomes clearer. This close alliance encompasses military cooperation and mutual support against threats, underscoring the complexities surrounding U.S.-Iran discussions. The White House had not issued a statement in response to this emerging situation by the time of publication.

In summary, Russia’s willingness to mediate discussions between the United States and Iran marks a significant diplomatic maneuver amidst heightened tensions regarding Iran’s nuclear program and regional activities. The evolving dynamics under the Trump administration suggest a potential shift towards dialogue, despite the prevailing pressures and previous conflicts. The urgency for negotiations amplified by experts and the strategic ties between Russia and Iran highlight the complexities within international relations. The initiative by Russia, if successful, might provide a pathway to avoid further escalation and conflict, illustrating the intertwined nature of current geopolitical alliances.

Original Source: www.middleeasteye.net