U.S. media cited senior U.S. officials on the 20th saying the U.S. military has not observed Iranian military activity to close the Strait of Hormuz.

European Council president Costa said on the 19th he is setting up a diplomatic channel through his office to convey EU messages directly to Russia, saying the EU should not rely on third parties to interpret its communications. He made the remark at a post-summit press conference. While the US has led diplomatic contact on a Russia-Ukraine ceasefire and talks, Europe seeks a larger role; some EU leaders remain reluctant about direct engagement with Russia.

U.S. Vice President Vance said U.S. presidential envoy Witkoff and Trump son-in-law Kushner have arrived at the negotiation site for talks with Iran; negotiations could take place on Sunday.