US: Rubio and Vance warn of Iran's threat ahead of talks
Deutsche Welle
February 26, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
US Vice President JD Vance and Secretary of State Marco Rubio have issued strong warnings about Iran's expanding ballistic missile and nuclear programs, which they claim pose a growing threat to US interests. Their remarks came just ahead of critical nuclear talks in Geneva between US and Iranian negotiators on Thursday. Rubio emphasized that Iran is working to rebuild elements of its nuclear program despite previous efforts to dismantle it, while Vance reiterated the administration's stance that Tehran cannot be allowed to develop nuclear weapons.
The warnings follow President Donald Trump's recent State of the Union address, where he asserted that Iran is on the brink of gaining the ability to strike the US mainland. Meanwhile, the US has been escalating its military presence in the Middle East, suggesting a potential readiness for strikes against Iran. Rubio highlighted Iran's existing conventional weapons, which he said are capable of reaching much of Europe and targeting Americans, as well as Tehran's efforts to develop longer-range weapons.
Tehran maintains that its nuclear program is entirely peaceful, but US officials remain skeptical, accusing Iran of seeking to enrich uranium to weapons-grade levels. Despite this, Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi has claimed that negotiations could still yield a diplomatic solution. However, Rubio and Vance have expressed concerns about Tehran's refusal to discuss ballistic missiles during the talks, calling it a "big problem."
The Geneva negotiations mark the third round of discussions this year, with both sides holding firm to their positions. While Iran insists on its right to self-defense under international law, US officials continue to warn against any potential military threats. The stakes are high as the world watches for any progress that could either ease tensions or escalate them further.
This situation matters because it underscores the ongoing tension between the US and Iran, with significant implications for regional stability and global security. As both sides prepare for critical talks, the possibility of a military confrontation looms large, making these negotiations a key focal point in international relations.
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Originally published on Deutsche Welle on 2/26/2026