**Iran and US Engage in Nuclear Talks, Russia Steps In**
As tensions between Iran and the United States continue to simmer, a new development has emerged: Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araqchi will visit Moscow for consultations with Russian officials ahead of the second round of nuclear program negotiations. This move comes as the two countries hold their first indirect talks in Oman on April 12.
According to Iranian media sources, the negotiations aimed to address Iran’s advancing nuclear program, amid U.S. threats of potential military action if no agreement is reached. The talks were mediated by Oman, with delegations in separate rooms exchanging messages through Oman’s foreign minister – an arrangement preferred by Iran, in contrast to U.S. calls for direct talks.
**Russia’s Growing Role**
This visit comes as Russia has been trying to position itself as a key player in the Middle East and Europe. The country has deepened ties with Iran since the start of the full-scale invasion, including providing thousands of Shahed drones used in attacks against Ukrainian cities, as well as short-range ballistic missiles.
In January, the two countries signed a strategic partnership agreement, strengthening cooperation in security and defense, energy, finance, transportation, and other areas. Russia’s interest in mediating between Iran and the U.S. has been clear for some time now, with Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov stating that “Russia is ready to make every effort” to contribute to resolving the issue through political and diplomatic means.
**EU and US Response**
Meanwhile, Poland’s Foreign Minister Radoslaw Sikorski criticized Hungary on April 14 for lacking “moral clarity” on Russia’s war against Ukraine. The European Union’s top diplomat also warned that any participation in Russia’s Victory Day parade would not be taken lightly by the EU.
The UK has transferred $990 million to Ukraine under a G7 loan, which will be used to buy air defense and artillery. This move comes as NATO has expressed concerns about Russia’s military activities in Eastern Europe.
**Ukraine Invites EU Officials**
In a symbolic move to counter Russian President Vladimir Putin’s annual Victory Day parade, Ukraine has invited top European Union officials to visit Kyiv on May 9. This move is seen as an attempt by Ukraine to strengthen its international support and demonstrate its commitment to countering Russia’s aggression.
As the situation continues to unfold, it remains to be seen how these developments will impact the negotiations between Iran and the U.S., as well as the broader conflict in Europe.
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