Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araqchi is set to visit Moscow this week to consult with Russian officials ahead of the anticipated second round of indirect talks between Iran and the United States. These discussions aim to address ongoing tensions surrounding Iran’s nuclear program and are part of renewed diplomatic efforts to ease hostilities and possibly revive elements of the 2015 nuclear agreement.
The Moscow visit comes after the first round of indirect negotiations held in Muscat, Oman. These initial discussions were facilitated by Omani Foreign Minister Badr al-Busaidi, with Araqchi representing Iran and Steve Witkoff serving as the US envoy. Although no breakthroughs were announced, both sides characterized the talks as constructive. The focus was primarily on establishing the groundwork for further dialogue.
While Muscat remains the likely venue for the next round of talks, diplomatic sources have indicated that alternative locations such as Rome or Geneva are also being considered. The exact timeline for the second meeting has not yet been confirmed, but preparations are actively underway.
Despite this diplomatic engagement, Iranian officials remain cautious. There is considerable skepticism within Tehran about the possibility of reaching a deal, especially in light of the United States’ history of pulling out of the 2015 agreement and reimposing harsh sanctions. Iranian leadership, particularly Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, has expressed reluctance but has given cautious approval for dialogue, largely due to mounting economic pressures and domestic unrest.
From the US perspective, the goal is to curtail Iran’s uranium enrichment activities, which Washington sees as a potential path to nuclear weapons development. Iran, however, continues to assert that its nuclear program is intended solely for peaceful, civilian energy purposes. Since the US withdrawal from the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA) in 2018, Iran has gradually expanded its nuclear activity, including enriching uranium close to weapons-grade levels.
Russia, a key signatory to the 2015 agreement, remains an important strategic partner for Iran. During his visit to Moscow, Araqchi is expected to brief Russian officials on the status of the US-Iran negotiations and coordinate positions. Russia has consistently supported Iran’s right to develop a peaceful nuclear program and has advocated for continued dialogue between Tehran and Washington.
This diplomatic outreach also takes place within the broader context of strengthening Iranian-Russian relations. Earlier this year, Iran and Russia signed a 20-year strategic partnership treaty aimed at deepening cooperation in economic, political, and military sectors. The treaty has been described by both sides as a commitment to a long-term alliance amid shifting global alliances and increasing tensions with the West.
The outcome of these upcoming talks could have significant implications not only for regional stability in the Middle East but also for global non-proliferation efforts. The international community continues to watch developments closely, hoping that diplomacy can prevent further escalation and restore a path toward peaceful resolution.