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Trump Credits China and Russia for Neutrality in US-Iran Ceasefire Deal
President Trump publicly thanked China and Russia for their "complete neutrality" during US-Iran ceasefire negotiations at the G7 summit in France on June 17. The US and Iran have finalized a 14-point memorandum of understanding providing for immediate cessation of military operations and a 60-day negotiation window for a final agreement, with both nations confirming completion of digital signatures, making a planned Switzerland signing ceremony unnecessary.


Quick Facts
Who
Donald Trump
What
Trump thanked China and Russia for neutrality during US-Iran ceasefire negotiations
When
June 17, 2026
Where
France
- Trump thanked China and Russia for neutrality during US-Iran ceasefire negotiations
- US and Iran completed a 14-point memorandum of understanding
- Memorandum provides for immediate cessation of military operations
- Both sides committed to respect mutual sovereignty and territorial integrity
- Trump confirmed signing the memorandum remotely at Versailles
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.
Why This Matters
This ceasefire signals a major shift in US-Iran relations and regional stability in the Middle East. Trump's public acknowledgment of China and Russia's neutrality underscores evolving diplomatic dynamics and great-power competition for influence in conflict resolution. The 60-day negotiation window presents critical opportunities for resolving nuclear tensions and sanctions disputes, directly affecting global energy markets, international security arrangements, and the US alliance structure—making this development pivotal for investors, policymakers, and those tracking geopolitical realignment.
Timeline & Sources
Jun 14, 2026
WireTrump previously said China and Russia had helped create conditions for a US-Iran understanding.
Jun 17, 2026
WireAt the G7 summit in France, Trump thanked China and Russia for staying neutral during the US-Iran negotiations.
Jun 17, 2026
WireThe US announced a 14-point memorandum of understanding with Iran and said a 60-day negotiation period would follow.
Jun 17, 2026
WireWhite House and Iranian statements indicated the memorandum had been signed digitally.
Jun 19, 2026
WireA planned signing ceremony in Switzerland was expected to be skipped, according to Iranian officials.