With President Obama proclaiming this morning "it's too early to tell" if a nuclear-deal with Iran is still possible; and apparent confirmation this afternoon that differences are "still significant," the US is said to be discussing extending the nuclear-deal deadline. Yet again no consequences (for a newfound 'ally') and yet again John Kerry finds himself purposeless... and now we hear Vladimir Putin will be calling Iran's Rouhani tomorrow (one can only imagine the topic of conversation).
[13]
h/t @Shahr2ad
As Reuters reports, [14] talks between Iran and six powers, which include China and Russia as well as the United States and three big EU countries, are expected to fail to reach a deal to lift U.S. and EU sanctions by a deadline on Monday.
While the deadline, already extended in July, could be extended again, Iranian officials have said they are working on an alternative if the talks collapse altogether, which would see them look east and north for diplomatic and economic support.
"Of course we have a plan B," a senior Iranian official told Reuters. "I cannot reveal more details but we have always had good relations with Russia and China. Naturally, if the nuclear talks fail, we will increase our cooperation with our friends and will provide them more opportunities in Iran's high-potential market."
He added: "We share common views (with Russia and China) on many issues, including Syria and Iraq."
China is the biggest buyer of Iranian oil and one of the few countries to continue absorbing large volumes of Iranian exports without any big decrease since U.S. and EU sanctions were tightened in the past three years. Russia has sold Iran weapons, built a nuclear power station and could provide technology.
Both countries can provide diplomatic cover at the U.N. Security Council, where they wield vetoes that can help prevent sanctions from be widened.
But...
If the nuclear talks collapse completely - an outcome none of the parties wants - neither China nor Russia can stop the United States and European Union from taking unilateral steps outside the United Nations to expand the painful energy and financial sanctions that hobbled the Iranian economy since 2011.
However, it seems 'another' nation may be about to align towards the Russia-China axis... (via Sputnink News) [15]
Russian President Vladimir Putin is planning to have a phone conversation on Monday with his Iranian counterpart Hassan Rouhani, Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov said on Sunday during his meeting with Iran's Foreign Minister Javad Zarif.
“Tomorrow, he [Putin] plans to talk to Rouhani, the administrations are in touch,” Lavrov said.
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The more the west pushes, the greater the impetus for ending the unipolar reign of the Petrodollar.
