Iran’s foreign minister Abbas Araghchi is currently meeting in Russia with President Vladimir Putin and Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov, for talks centered on the ongoing Middle East conflict.
Speaking upon arrival in St. Petersburg, Araghchi pointed to the United States as the reason recent negotiations broke down, stating that Washington’s demands derailed progress. He said earlier talks had shown signs of advancement but ultimately failed due to what he described as “excessive demands” and “wrong approaches” by the U.S.
Araghchi also emphasized Tehran’s continued coordination with Moscow, stating that Iran maintains close consultations with Russia and ongoing bilateral discussions across a range of issues, underscoring the alignment between the two countries. His visit to Russia comes shortly after President Trump scrapped plans to dispatch envoy Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner to the talks, signaling frustration with the negotiation process.
According to reporting by Axios, Iran has sent a proposal to the U.S. via Pakistani intermediaries to reopen the Strait of Hormuz and end the conflict, with nuclear talks delayed to a later stage. The proposal calls for a prolonged ceasefire or permanent end to fighting first, followed by nuclear negotiations after the strait is reopened and restrictions are lifted. The White House has received it, but it is unclear whether it will engage with the framework.
President Trump is expected to hold a Situation Room meeting Monday with senior national security officials to review the plan.
