Iran seeks Russian backing in crucial Rome nuclear talks

• Iran counts on Russian support in the forthcoming talks with the USA regarding the nuclear programme. The meeting is scheduled to occur in Rome this weekend.
• Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi highlighted Russia's role as a mediator and expressed optimism for its continued support.
• The International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) warns that time to reach an agreement with Iran is limited, as the nation is on the brink of developing nuclear weapons.

As Iran prepares for the second round of talks with the USA, it has approached Russia for backing. During a visit to Moscow, Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi expressed his hope that Russia would continue to play a key role in the negotiations. "We are hopeful, and we expect Russia to continue its supportive role in any new agreement," stated Araghchi.

Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov reaffirmed Moscow's readiness to assist. "We are ready to help, mediate and play any role that, from Iran’s point of view, will be useful and that will be acceptable to the United States," Lavrov remarked.

The International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) alerts that Iran is nearing the possession of nuclear weapons. IAEA Chief Rafael Grossi stressed that the world is at a pivotal moment in negotiations. In an interview with "Le Monde," Grossi assessed that Iran "is not far" from acquiring an atomic bomb and has sufficient material to manufacture several such bombs.

In Paris, US Secretary of State Marco Rubio expressed hope for productive talks with Iran. "We would all prefer a peaceful resolution and a lasting one," Rubio stated, underscoring the necessity to uphold sanctions against Iran.