Russia and Iran Discuss the Islamic Republic's Nuclear Program

On Friday, March 8, the Russian Foreign Ministry announced that Sergey Ryabkov, the Deputy Foreign Minister of Russia, had discussed international efforts to resolve the issue of Iran's nuclear program with Kazem Jalali, the ambassador of the Islamic Republic of Iran. According to Reuters, this meeting took place on Thursday, March 7. The Russian Foreign Ministry's statement did not provide details about the conversation. Bloomberg reported on Tuesday, March 6, that Russia had agreed to assist the Trump administration in various matters related to Iran, including the Islamic Republic's nuclear program and its support for anti-American groups in the region. Following this, Brian Hughes, a spokesman for the National Security Council, told Voice of America that the Trump administration speaks 'from a position of strength' regarding U.S. national security with both friends and foes. Additionally, a source familiar with the matter, who requested anonymity, told a VOA Persian reporter that 'the Russians have offered to mediate with the Islamic Republic, but they have not been asked to play that role.' Meanwhile, the Kremlin announced on Wednesday, March 6, that upcoming negotiations between Russia and the United States would include discussions about Iran's nuclear program, a topic that was also raised in the first round of talks last month between Moscow and Washington. Last month, Trump resumed his maximum pressure policy against the Iranian government, aiming to reduce oil exports to zero to prevent the Islamic Republic from acquiring nuclear weapons. Since the onset of the Ukraine war, Russia has strengthened its ties with Iran and signed a strategic cooperation agreement with the Iranian government. Jonathan Schanzer: The White House should not be deceived by Russia's role in Iran's nuclear negotiations. The Trump administration is reviewing all sanctions waivers related to Iran. Steve Witkoff: I do not have direct negotiations with the Islamic Republic. The U.S. Treasury Secretary: We will bankrupt the Iranian government again.