This important JCPOA/nuclear weapons news is a reminder of the international relations theory of realism, and of the importance of the U.S. needing to stand firm for freedom (against Russia and Iran), and a reminder that it is difficult for countries to stick together who have motives that are less than (select your adjective) for their own people.  This news is being carried by multiple news outlets.  “Russia’s demand for US guarantees may stall nuclear talks, says Iran official,” Middle East Eye, March 5, 2022.  But it is bigger than the negative actions by Russia against Ukraine.  Both Russia and China are asking “for written guarantee from Washington that its trade, investment and military cooperation with Iran will not be hindered by US sanctions.”

We will believe it when we see it, as this claim is against years of practice by Iran.  “Iran to answer UN nuclear questions as deal talks near end,” Philipp Jenne and Jon Gambrell, AP, Aspen Daily News, March 5, 2022.  “Today, Tehran enriches uranium up to 60% purity — its highest level ever and a short technical step from weapons-grade levels of 90% and far greater than the nuclear deal’s 3.67% cap. Its stockpile of enriched uranium also continues to grow, worrying nuclear nonproliferation experts that Iran could be closer to the threshold of having enough material for an atomic weapon if it chose to pursue one.”

The type of story that some of us have seen often—the last minute request or revelation.  “Iran Nuclear Deal Threatened by Russian Demands Over Ukraine Sanctions,” Wall Street Journal, March 5, 2022.