Russia: We are not obliged to implement decisions made about the JCPOA without us

Russia announced on Friday that since negotiations regarding the future of the nuclear agreement known as the JCPOA have only been conducted between the United States, Britain, France, and Germany, with no participation from Russia and China, Moscow reserves the right not to be bound by any decisions made regarding it. Vladimir Chizhov, Russia's ambassador to the UN, stated: "These negotiations are not only happening behind our backs but also without informing China and even the European External Action Service, which coordinates the 1+5 group." He added, "Therefore, in this case, while we are not involved in these negotiations, we reserve the right not to adhere to any agreement they reach." Reports indicate that France, Britain, and Germany are exploring ways to gain Donald Trump's support for the JCPOA. Mr. Trump has stated he is not willing to continue cooperation with this agreement. Donald Trump has given the European signatory countries of the nuclear agreement with Iran, which was achieved in 2015 during Barack Obama's presidency, until May 12 to address "serious flaws" in the agreement, otherwise the U.S. will not extend the suspension of nuclear sanctions against Iran. France, Britain, and Germany are in contact with the U.S. government to see what actions might encourage Donald Trump to extend the suspension of sanctions against Iran. It was previously reported that France, Britain, and Germany have been unable to convince other EU member states to impose new sanctions against Iran aimed at preserving the JCPOA, with Italy stating there is no guarantee that even with new sanctions, the U.S. will not withdraw from the nuclear agreement with Iran. Chizhov's remarks were published in the newspaper "Rossiyskaya Gazeta." He mentioned that in his view, "both the Europeans recognize this and it is in their interest to consider cooperation with Russia on serious global issues." Vladimir Chizhov stated: "Another issue that was sidelined during the EU summit amid the excitement related to Skripal was the confirmation of the consensus opinion of member countries to preserve and implement the nuclear agreement with Iran." The issue of the chemical gas attack on dual agent Sergei Skripal and his daughter Yulia in Salisbury, UK, which London claims was carried out by Russia, has caused serious tension in diplomatic relations with Russia. The U.S., EU, Canada, and NATO are parties that have reduced their diplomatic relations with Russia and expelled several Russian diplomats. The U.S. expelled 60 Russian intelligence officers and closed the Russian consulate in Seattle. In response, Russia expelled 60 American diplomats and closed the U.S. consulate in St. Petersburg.