Russia and Iran Discuss Nuclear Talks Amid Strengthened Ties

Russian Deputy Foreign Minister Sergei Ryabkov met with Iranian Ambassador Kazem Jalali on Thursday to discuss diplomatic efforts regarding Iran’s nuclear program, the Russian Foreign Ministry announced Friday.

Their meeting follows reports from Bloomberg stating that Russia has agreed to facilitate communication between Iran and the U.S. on nuclear-related matters and Tehran’s regional activities. The Kremlin confirmed that future U.S.-Russia talks would include discussions on Iran’s nuclear program, which was briefly addressed in prior negotiations.

Tensions have escalated following U.S. President Donald Trump’s decision to reinstate the "maximum pressure" campaign against Iran, aiming to curb its oil exports and prevent nuclear weapon development—an allegation Iran denies.

Russia has significantly strengthened its partnership with Iran since the Ukraine war began, culminating in a strategic cooperation treaty signed in January. The growing alliance between Moscow and Tehran raises geopolitical stakes as global powers navigate ongoing nuclear diplomacy.