Washington: In a recent development, US Special Envoy Steve Witkoff stated that the United States would take Russia at its word after President Vladimir Putin assured President Donald Trump that Moscow was not providing intelligence to Iran regarding US military locations. "We can take them at their word," Witkoff told CNBC, expressing hope that Russia was not sharing sensitive information.
According to Anadolu Agency, Kremlin aide Yury Ushakov reiterated the assurance during a call with Witkoff and Jared Kushner, Trump's son-in-law. Witkoff mentioned that he could not independently verify the denial, indicating that it would be a matter for intelligence officials to investigate further. The conversation between Putin and Trump on Monday touched on the ongoing conflict in Iran and trilateral negotiations with Ukraine.
Iran's Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi previously confirmed that Russia was providing military support to Iran across various areas, although he did not specify whether this included intelligence on US forces. Meanwhile, Steve Witkoff indicated that while the possibility of a diplomatic resolution with Tehran remains open, the US would not commit to it unless Iran shows willingness to engage in talks. Trump echoed this sentiment, mentioning that Iran's desire to negotiate would be contingent on terms acceptable to the United States.
Witkoff also highlighted concerns over Iran's alleged stockpile of 460 kilograms of 60% enriched uranium, citing it as a core justification for the US military campaign. He suggested that such enrichment levels were unnecessary unless for weapon development, and warned of the potential threat posed to Israel, describing it as a "one bomb country."
Reports of a postponed visit to Israel due to US apprehensions about Israeli attacks on Iranian energy infrastructure were dismissed by Witkoff, who clarified that the visit was intended for coordination purposes and would likely occur the following week.
The recent escalation in the Middle East began when Israel and the US conducted a joint attack against Iran on February 28, resulting in over 1,200 casualties, including Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. In retaliation, Tehran launched drone and missile strikes targeting Israel and Gulf nations housing US military installations. The conflict has claimed the lives of eight US service members since its onset.