Russia reportedly offered the US a deal regarding Iran, conditioning it on concessions related to Ukraine, a proposal Washington rejected.
Russia’s Proposal to the US
Two sources familiar with US-Russia negotiations revealed that Kremlin envoy Kirill Dmitriev presented the proposal to US President’s envoys Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner during a meeting in Miami last week.
The United States has reportedly rejected the offer.
European Concerns Over the Proposal
The reported proposal has sparked concern among European diplomats, who fear Russia is attempting to drive a wedge between the US and Europe at a critical moment for transatlantic relations.
“Scandalous” Offer and Implications for Ukraine
One EU diplomat described the Russian proposal as “scandalous.” The Kremlin’s actions may reinforce suspicions in Europe that meetings between Witkoff and Dmitriev are not progressing towards a peace agreement for Ukraine, but are instead seen as an opportunity to secure a deal with Washington that marginalizes Europe.
Russia Expanded Intelligence Sharing with Iran
Another source familiar with the talks stated that Russia has made various proposals to the US regarding Iran, all of which were rejected. This includes a proposal to transfer enriched uranium from Iran to Russia.
Since the start of the conflict in the Middle East, Russia has reportedly increased its intelligence sharing with Iran.
Trump Criticizes NATO Over Iran Strait of Hormuz
Former US President Donald Trump recently criticized NATO allies, accusing them of inaction regarding the Iranian-blocked Strait of Hormuz. He stated, “Without the USA NATO IS A PAPER TIGER!” and claimed allies did not want to join efforts to contain Iran’s nuclear program.
International Response to Iran’s Threats
Japan and five NATO countries – the UK, France, Germany, the Netherlands, and Italy – have declared their readiness to take “appropriate” action to unblock the Strait of Hormuz. Iran has threatened attacks on vessels attempting to pass through the strait and has conducted several such attacks, while maintaining that the waterway is not entirely closed to cooperating nations.