Russia has agreed to mediate discussions between the U.S. and Iran on nuclear issues and proxy support after a call between Trump and Putin. Kremlin spokesperson Peskov expressed commitment to resolution through negotiation. The shift in U.S. policy under Trump aims to normalize relations with both countries, promoting dialogue over confrontation, amid pressing calls for urgent mediation to prevent conflict.
Reports indicate that the Russian Federation has consented to facilitate discussions between the United States and Iran concerning Tehran’s nuclear program and its support for adversarial proxies. This revelation follows a telephone conversation between U.S. President Donald Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin, during which President Trump expressed a desire to promote negotiations. Trump’s administration subsequently engaged in discussions with Russian officials in mid-February, including U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio and Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov.
Russian officials have expressed a willingness to assist in the negotiation process. Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov articulated that “Russia believes that the United States and Iran should resolve all problems through negotiations” and reassured that Moscow would leverage its influence to facilitate dialogue. An unnamed White House source disclosed that Russia volunteered this mediation role without being solicited.
In Iran, foreign ministry spokesman Esmaeil Baghaei acknowledged the significance of international goodwill in resolving such matters and noted that various parties might extend offers to assist if needed. This apparent shift comes amidst President Trump’s broader strategy to normalize relations with Russia, which had severely deteriorated following Russia’s invasion of Ukraine.
Trump’s recent administration has adopted a more conciliatory stance towards both Russia and Iran. The U.S. administration’s outreach to Russia to include it in talks concerning Iran, coupled with Trump’s openness to negotiation, marks a significant transition from previous tactics aimed at maximum pressure on Iran. Yet, Trump’s prior decision to withdraw from the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA) in 2018 still looms large over current discussions.
Policy analysts have emphasized the urgency of mediation between the U.S. and Iran, warning against escalation leading to conflict. Ryan Costello, director of the National Iranian American Council, stated that opportunities for negotiation have often been fleeting, underscoring the present moment as critical for engaging in dialogue. Furthermore, Russia’s entente with Iran has strengthened through recent mutual agreements, reinforcing their status as strategic partners amidst changing geopolitical dynamics.
In summary, the unexpected willingness of Russia to mediate talks between the U.S. and Iran signifies a potential shift in diplomatic engagement concerning Iran’s nuclear program. The collaboration appears to be a strategic maneuver by President Trump to reset relations with both Russia and Iran, urging negotiation over conflict. Key stakeholders emphasize the urgency of fostering dialogue to avert the threats of escalation and proliferation, as historical attempts at negotiation have often missed crucial opportunities.
Original Source: www.middleeasteye.net
