Russia: US-Iran ceasefire extension could prevent escalation

MOSCOW, May 23. /TASS/. The 60-day extension of the ceasefire between the US and Iran could be an opportunity to avoid further escalation, Russian special presidential envoy and Russian Direct Investment Fund (RDIF) CEO Kirill Dmitriev stated.

"The world needs peace to avoid [a] catastrophic, irreversible collapse," the envoy wrote on his X page in English, commenting on reports that the US and Iran are close to reaching an agreement to extend the ceasefire for 60 days.

The Financial Times previously reported, citing sources, that the two sides are working out a framework for discussing Tehran’s nuclear program. According to the newspaper, the agreement could include the phased reopening of the Strait of Hormuz and Iran’s destruction or transfer of its stockpiles of enriched uranium. In return, Washington could ease the blockade of Iranian ports, relax sanctions, and gradually unfreeze Tehran’s overseas assets.