Lavrov undermines US attempts to extend Iran's arms embargo

Moscow, June 16, IRNA – Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov criticized the US with regard to the situation of Iran nuclear deal, known as the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA), saying the US attempts to extend arms embargo on Iran will not have a future for implementation. Speaking to reporters on Tuesday, Lavrov said JCPOA and the UNSCR 2231 which verified the deal have in fact one single objective. But the US which quit the JCPOA created obstacles for implementing the international agreement by other parties, he added. This is while, the US is trying to extend arms embargo with the claim of participating in the nuclear deal, Lavrov noted. We will try to implement international regulations, he reiterated. Lavrov said that despite US’ destructive stance, Iran and Russia underline the importance of preserving the JCPOA. He noted that he has not received UN Secretary General António Guterres’ response to his letter on JCPOA and US' attempts to extend arms embargo on Iran. Elsewhere in his remarks, Russia's top diplomat said Astana summit may be held online in July. He assured that the event will be held online until UN Special Envoy for Syria Geir O. Pedersen holds Syrian constitution meeting. He said that in his meeting with Zarif, both sides underlined implementation of agreements achieved in Astana talks. "We also discussed measures taken to bring about stability to war situation in Syria, post-crisis era and helping Syrian refugees return home," Lavrov added.