Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi, Witkoff's counterpart in the talks, will arrive in Rome on Friday after a visit to Moscow, during which Araghchi met with President Vladimir Putin and discussed the negotiations with the US
Although Russia is not directly involved in the talks, the Iranians are seeking Russian support, including potentially to press their case with Trump
Araghchi said on Friday,
Quote
"We hope Russia will play a role in a possible deal"
Araghchi added that the US showed seriousness in the first round of talks but said Iran hears "conflicting messages" from the US in public and in private
Quote
"What's said at the negotiating table is what matters"
Araghchi added that a deal can be reached if the US doesn't present "unrealistic demands" One of those demands, Araghchi said, was that Iran completely halt uranium enrichment
What to watch
The second round of talks on Saturday will be held at the Omani embassy in Rome
They are expected to start around 5am ET and last at least five hours
The US wants the second round of talks to end with a framework for the next steps in the negotiations
