Iranian Supreme Leader Khamenei doubts US nuclear talks as Iran ratifies strategic pact with Russia

TEHRAN — On Tuesday, Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei voiced deep skepticism about negotiations with the United States over Tehran’s nuclear program, asserting that such talks are unlikely to produce meaningful outcomes. His remarks coincided with the Iranian parliament’s ratification of a sweeping 20-year strategic partnership agreement with Russia, signaling Tehran’s growing alignment with Moscow.

In a televised address, Khamenei criticized the ongoing backchannel negotiations with Washington, stating, “Indirect talks with America were ongoing during the presidency of Ebrahim Raisi, just as they are now — and, naturally, without result. We do not expect any outcome now either. Who knows what will happen?”

The Supreme Leader reiterated Iran’s firm stance on uranium enrichment, stating, “When Americans say they won’t allow Iran to enrich uranium, it is an outrageous overreach. We do not wait for anyone’s permission; the Islamic Republic has its own policy and will pursue it.”

At the same time, Iran has bolstered its geopolitical ties with Russia. On Tuesday, the Iranian parliament approved a strategic cooperation agreement signed earlier this year by Russian President Vladimir Putin and Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian. The Russian Duma ratified the accord in April.

While the agreement lacks a mutual defense clause, it commits both nations to coordinating against common military threats, enhancing military-technical cooperation, and conducting joint exercises — underscoring Iran’s pivot toward Eastern alliances amid strained relations with the West.

Khamenei’s dismissal of diplomacy with Washington, coupled with Tehran’s deepening partnership with Moscow, reflects Iran’s increasingly defiant posture on the global stage, raising fresh concerns over the future of nuclear talks and regional stability.