Trump Says He Will Be “Indirectly” Involved in Iran Nuclear Talks

US President Donald Trump said aboard Air Force One that he expects Iran to negotiate more seriously this time as a new round of talks opens in Geneva. Describing the discussions as “very important,” Trump suggested Tehran is motivated to reach a deal over its nuclear programme.

“They Don’t Want the Consequences”

Framing the negotiations as a pivotal moment, Trump warned that Iran understands the cost of failing to reach an agreement. “I don’t think they want the consequences of not making a deal,” he said, recalling US airstrikes last summer on Iranian nuclear facilities. Referring to the deployment of B-2 stealth bombers, Trump argued that military action could have been avoided had Tehran accepted a deal earlier. “We could have had a deal instead of sending the B-2s in to knock out their nuclear potential. And we had to send the B-2s,” he stated, adding, “I hope they’re going to be more reasonable.”

The remarks come as the United States has expanded its military presence in the Middle East in recent weeks, reinforcing diplomatic efforts with strategic pressure.

Tehran Sees a “More Realistic” Washington

Iran’s foreign ministry said Monday it believes the US position on the nuclear issue has shifted toward what it described as “a more realistic one.” The talks, mediated by Oman, are expected to focus on Iran’s nuclear activities and the potential lifting of US-imposed economic sanctions.

While Tehran has indicated the discussions will center strictly on nuclear matters and sanctions relief, Washington has previously signaled it wants to broaden the agenda to include Iran’s missile stockpile. The diplomatic gap underscores the complexity of reaching a comprehensive agreement.

Rising Tensions Shape the Diplomatic Backdrop

The Geneva meeting marks the second round of negotiations and follows months of heightened strain, including US criticism of Iran’s crackdown on anti-government protests and escalating rhetoric over its nuclear programme. The parallel military build-up in the region has intensified the stakes, signaling that diplomacy is unfolding under significant strategic pressure.

Broader Foreign Policy Signals from Air Force One

Trump also addressed other global flashpoints during his exchange with reporters.

On Ukraine, he urged swift engagement in negotiations. “Ukraine better come to the table fast. That’s all I’m telling you. We are in a position we want them to come,” he said.

When asked about tensions between the United Arab Emirates and Saudi Arabia, Trump asserted he could mediate easily. “I could settle it very easily… I settle wars. I settle a lot of rifts between countries. That’s an easy one to settle,” he remarked.

Pressed on whether he would consider an operation in Cuba similar to US actions in Venezuela if negotiations failed, Trump declined to give a direct answer. “If I was, it wouldn’t be a very tough operation… but I don’t think that’ll be necessary,” he said. He described Cuba as “a failed nation” facing severe shortages, while noting that Washington is currently in talks with Havana and urging a deal to avert what he called a humanitarian threat.

Addressing questions about Jeffrey Epstein, Trump said: “I have nothing to hide. I’ve been exonerated. I have nothing to do with Jeffrey Epstein… I’ve been totally exonerated.”