Kathrine Frich
Peace talks between Russia, the United States and Ukraine have stalled.
The escalating conflict in Iran has pulled attention, resources and political focus away from negotiations, raising fears that efforts to end the war in Ukraine are losing momentum.
Against this backdrop, new details are emerging about what has been discussed behind closed doors.
Secret proposal
Russia reportedly offered the United States a controversial deal involving both Iran and Ukraine, according to Politico cited by Digi24.
The proposal suggested Moscow would stop sharing sensitive intelligence with Tehran if Washington halted its own intelligence support for Ukraine.
Two sources familiar with the talks said the offer was presented by Russian envoy Kirill Dmitriev during a meeting in Miami with Trump allies Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner.
The United States rejected the proposal, the sources said, speaking anonymously due to the sensitivity of the discussions.
Denial and reaction
Following the report, Dmitriev denied the claims, calling them false.
However, the alleged proposal has alarmed European officials, who fear it could be an attempt by Moscow to divide the US and its allies.
One EU diplomat described the idea as “scandalous.”
The concerns come at a time of strained transatlantic relations, with fears that separate US-Russia dealings could sideline Europe.
Rising tensions
US President Donald Trump has recently criticised NATO allies over their reluctance to take a stronger role in Middle East security.
He labelled them “cowards” and warned: “We will remember!”
Meanwhile, the Kremlin said that US-mediated peace talks on Ukraine have been “suspended.”
Officials say multiple Russian proposals related to Iran have been rejected by Washington.
Intelligence stakes
The issue highlights the growing importance of intelligence sharing in the Ukraine war.
The United States continues to provide Kyiv with key intelligence, even after scaling back other forms of military and financial support.
Russia, meanwhile, has deepened cooperation with Iran, including alleged intelligence sharing and military support, according to The Wall Street Journal.
The Kremlin has dismissed such reports as “fake news.”
Sources: Politico, The Wall Street Journal, Axios, Digi24
