Kremlin said Tehran makes its own choices regarding Trump’s nuclear correspondence

The Kremlin was asked on Monday whether Russia had engaged in discussions with Iran prior to or following Tehran’s response to a letter from U.S. President Donald Trump, which urged the nation to negotiate a nuclear agreement. The Kremlin stated that Iran develops its own policy positions independently.

On Saturday, Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei asserted that Tehran would not be coerced into negotiations, following Trump’s announcement that he had sent a letter encouraging Iran to participate in talks regarding a new nuclear deal.

When questioned about any consultations between Moscow and Tehran in relation to Trump’s letter, Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov informed reporters: “No. Iran is a sovereign nation and independently establishes its stance on significant foreign policy matters. It is evident that we are facing very tense interactions ahead.”

Trump has previously indicated his intention to reinstate a “maximum pressure” strategy on Iran to deter the country from developing nuclear weapons, while also expressing a willingness to negotiate a new agreement with Tehran.

Since the onset of the war in Ukraine, Russia and Iran have strengthened their ties, with Tehran supplying drones to Moscow.

Regarding potential discussions on Iran’s nuclear program, Peskov remarked: “It is evident that Iran is pursuing negotiations rooted in mutual respect and constructive dialogue.” He added, “We will, of course, continue to do everything within our power to facilitate a peaceful resolution to the Iranian nuclear issue.”