Introduction: On Tuesday, April 8, 2025, Moscow expressed optimism about upcoming nuclear talks between the United States and Iran, scheduled for Saturday in Oman. The surprise announcement from U.S. President Donald Trump, made during a meeting with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, marks a significant diplomatic shift. As tensions over Iran’s nuclear program persist, Russia and other global players see these discussions as a potential step toward de-escalation in a volatile region.
Russia Backs US-Iran Diplomacy
Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov welcomed the talks, noting, “We know that certain contacts—direct and indirect—are planned in Oman. And, of course, this can only be welcomed because it can lead to de-escalation of tensions around Iran.” Russia “absolutely” supports the initiative, Peskov added, aligning with Moscow’s long-standing call for diplomatic resolutions between Washington and Tehran. The announcement follows Trump’s earlier threats to bomb Iran if it refused negotiations, a stance that had heightened regional unease.
Global Reactions and Context
Iran confirmed the Oman talks but emphasized they would be “indirect,” while dismissing earlier calls for a new nuclear deal as pointless. The original Iranian nuclear deal, formally the JCPOA, collapsed in 2018 when Trump withdrew the U.S. and reimposed sanctions during his first term. Meanwhile, China urged the U.S. to approach the talks with “sincerity.” On the same day, Russia’s foreign ministry announced expert-level nuclear consultations with China and Iran in Moscow, signaling broader international engagement. For more on the JCPOA, visit iaea.org.
The Russian parliament also ratified a strategic partnership treaty with Iran on Tuesday, reflecting deepening ties amid Western sanctions over Russia’s Ukraine offensive.
Implications for Regional Stability
With Moscow and Tehran strengthening their alliance, the Oman talks could reshape Middle Eastern dynamics. The U.S. initiative, backed by Russia and cautiously observed by China, suggests a rare convergence of interests in avoiding further escalation. However, the indirect nature of the discussions and Iran’s skepticism leave the outcome uncertain. Stay updated on global diplomacy at un.org.
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