Russia Reaffirms Support for JCPOA Revival Amid U.S. Negotiation Conditions

Russia’s Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov advocates for the revival of the JCPOA, reaffirming discussions with the U.S. and Europe. He criticizes U.S. conditions for a new nuclear deal linked to Iran’s regional actions, asserting it will not succeed. Lavrov insists on recognizing Iran’s rights to influence in the region, rejecting any unilateral pressure against it.

Russia’s Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov has expressed Moscow’s commitment to reviving the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA), initially established in 2015 between Iran and six world powers. In a recent interview, he confirmed discussions regarding Iran’s situation have occurred with both the United States and European nations, emphasizing the importance of reinstating the original agreement which the U.S. abandoned during the Trump administration.

Lavrov indicated a preference for restoring the diplomatic framework that led to the JCPOA’s formation, which was backed by the UN Security Council and Iran. He stated, “We’ll see how it goes,” in reference to ongoing talks with U.S. and European officials concerning the deal’s future.

The Minister remarked on U.S. demands for a new nuclear agreement, noting that President Trump sought to link this arrangement to Iran’s restraint from supporting resistance groups in the Middle East. Lavrov stated, “This option will not work,” expressing concern over the political conditions the U.S. intends to attach to negotiations. Additionally, he condemned any pressure on Iran regarding its regional influence, asserting such a stance is untenable.

The JCPOA, formed by the P5+1—which includes the five permanent members of the UN Security Council plus Germany—was designed to regulate Iran’s nuclear ambitions. However, the U.S. withdrawal in 2018 led to reinstated sanctions on Iran. Consequently, European nations encouraged Iran to adhere to its commitments while failing to fulfill promises of economic relief, prompting Iran to gradually reduce its compliance after a year of unfulfilled expectations.

In conclusion, Russia remains supportive of reviving the JCPOA, signaling a willingness to engage in discussions with both the United States and Europe regarding this pivotal agreement. Lavrov’s remarks emphasize the need for a restoration of the original framework devoid of political conditions imposed by the U.S. Furthermore, he firmly rejected attempts to limit Iran’s influence in the Middle East, advocating for equitable rights among all regional nations.

Original Source: en.mehrnews.com