Talks progress as Moscow gains key role in nuclear deal

Russia could play a key role in a deal on the future of Iran’s nuclear programme, with Moscow being touted not only as a possible destination for Iran’s stockpile of highly enriched uranium, but also as a possible arbiter of deal breaches.

- Patrick Wintour

Donald Trump, who abandoned a 2015 nuclear pact between Tehran and world powers in 2018, has threatened to attack Iran unless it reaches a new deal swiftly that would prevent it from developing a nuclear weapon.

Four hours of indirect talks between the US and Iran in Rome last Saturday, under the mediation of Oman, made significant progress, according to US officials. Further technical talks were due in Geneva this week, followed by another high-level diplomatic meeting this weekend in Oman.

Trump's special envoy, Steve Witkoff, wants an agreement wrapped up within 60 days, but is likely to face resistance from Iran’s foreign minister, Abbas Araghchi, who believes a swift agreement is unlikely.