United States President Donald Trump has downplayed Iran’s заявление that it will not participate in the latest round of peace negotiations, maintaining that discussions are still expected to proceed.
Speaking to The New York Post, Trump expressed confidence that the diplomatic process remains intact.
“We’re supposed to have the talks,” he said.
“So I would assume at this point nobody’s playing games.”
He confirmed that Vice President JD Vance, special envoy Steve Witkoff and adviser Jared Kushner have departed the United States for Islamabad, Pakistan, where the talks are scheduled to take place.
“They’re heading over now,” Trump said. “They’ll be there tonight, Islamabad time.”
The planned negotiations come at a critical time, just days before a ceasefire agreement between the United States and Iran is due to expire, amid rising tensions in the region.
Trump also indicated a willingness to engage directly with Iran’s leadership if necessary.
“I have no problem meeting them,” he said.
“If they want to meet, and we have some very capable people, but I have no problem meeting them.”
He reiterated that the core demand from the United States remains Iran’s nuclear programme.
“Get rid of their nuclear weapons. That’s all very simple,” Trump said.
“There will be no nuclear weapon.”
When asked about potential consequences if Iran declines to comply or if negotiations fail, the president declined to elaborate.
“Well, I don’t want to get into that with you. You can imagine. It wouldn’t be pretty,” he added.
