Trump Credits China and Russia for Neutrality in US-Iran Ceasefire Deal

During a G7 summit news conference in France on June 17, President Donald Trump publicly thanked China and Russia for maintaining what he described as "complete neutrality" during negotiations that led to a US-Iran ceasefire memorandum of understanding. Speaking in Evian-les-Bains, Trump praised both nations for their restraint, stating their actions made the situation "much better" and that they could have made matters significantly more difficult. He specifically highlighted China's decision not to deploy military assets such as oil tankers or destroyer escorts to breach the US blockade of the Strait of Hormuz, crediting Chinese President Xi Jinping with helping to facilitate the agreement.

The United States and Iran have completed a 14-point memorandum of understanding that outlines immediate and permanent cessation of military operations across all fronts, including those in Lebanon, with commitments to refrain from future warfare, military action, or threats against each other. The memorandum also pledges respect for mutual sovereignty and territorial integrity, with provisions ensuring Lebanon's territorial integrity. Trump confirmed he had signed the document remotely at Versailles on June 17, while Iranian officials confirmed that President Raisi completed the signing through digital signatures, making a planned formal signing ceremony in Switzerland on June 19 unnecessary. Both sides' negotiation teams will proceed to Geneva for 60 days of further discussions focused on nuclear issues, sanctions relief, and finalizing a comprehensive agreement.

China's embassy in Washington responded to Trump's remarks by noting that the country's position has been "consistent" and that it has been "unremittingly working to end the war and achieve peace." Chinese Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Lin Jian previously stated that since the conflict began, China has continuously worked to stop the fighting and pursue peace, contributing a Chinese solution for eliminating conflict and earning support from regional and international communities.

Trump's effusive praise for China and Russia contrasts sharply with his criticism of US allies. He has repeatedly complained that Japan and European allies failed to provide adequate support for American military operations against Iran and efforts to reopen the Strait of Hormuz. However, G7 leaders including French President Macron, German Chancellor Merz, British Prime Minister Starmer, and Italian Premier Meloni—who had earlier criticized Trump for launching military action without consulting allies—issued a joint statement welcoming the preliminary US-Iran agreement and commending "President Trump's strong leadership" for achieving the breakthrough.