Nuclear Program at the Center of Geneva Talks Between Europe and Tehran Today; Possibility of Renewed U.S. Negotiations Also Exists – White House

Nuclear Program at the Center of Geneva Talks Between Europe and Tehran Today; Possibility of Renewed U.S. Negotiations Also Exists – White House
[June 20, 2025]

Amid the escalating tensions in the Middle East, Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi is set to meet European leaders in Geneva on Friday, with discussions focusing on Iran’s nuclear and ballistic missile programs. According to the White House, there is a “real possibility” of renewed negotiations between the United States and Iran.

White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt told reporters on Thursday:

“There is a meaningful and realistic chance for renewed negotiations with Iran.”

She noted that since the military conflict with Israel began on June 13, there have been six rounds of direct and indirect talks between the U.S. and Iran.

Leavitt did not confirm whether President Trump’s special envoy, Steve Witkoff, would attend the Geneva talks.

Will the U.S. Engage in Direct Military Conflict?

In response to questions about possible U.S. involvement, Leavitt read a statement from President Donald Trump, which said:

“There is a substantial possibility that negotiations with Iran may or may not happen soon. I will decide within the next two weeks whether the U.S. will become militarily involved in the region.”

She emphasized that President Trump prefers a diplomatic solution but made it very clear that:

“Any potential agreement must include Iran’s complete cessation of uranium enrichment.”

Iran’s Nuclear Capability: A Grave Concern

Leavitt warned:

“Iran is now closer than ever to obtaining a nuclear weapon. They already have everything they need—only a decision from the Supreme Leader remains.”

She added that this presents an existential threat not just to Israel, but to the United States and the entire world.

However, she reiterated Trump’s firm stance:

“President Trump has been very clear—Iran will never be allowed to obtain a nuclear weapon.”

Leavitt also described the draft deal proposed by Special Envoy Witkoff as both “realistic and acceptable.”

Geneva Talks Participants

According to French media outlet RFI, the European foreign ministers participating in Friday’s Geneva talks include:

• Jean-Noël Barrot – France

• David Lammy – United Kingdom

• Johann Wadephul – Germany

• Kaja Kallas – EU foreign policy chief

French Foreign Minister Barrot stated:

“France, Britain, and Germany are ready to use their diplomatic experience and expertise to create a productive path forward. Our goal is to get Iran to permanently roll back its nuclear and missile programs.”

“Iran Must Never Become a Nuclear Power”

U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio and British Foreign Secretary David Lammy reiterated this message during a joint meeting on Thursday. According to State Department spokesperson Tammy Bruce,

“Both leaders agreed that Iran must never develop or acquire a nuclear weapon.”

Global Significance of Geneva Talks

Analysts say that today’s Geneva meeting is not only critical for Middle Eastern stability but also for global security. If a diplomatic resolution is achieved, it could help reduce tensions in the Iran-Israel conflict significantly.