Feb 18 • 02:48 UTC 🇷🇺 Russia RT

Iran considering sending enriched uranium to Russia – WSJ

Iran is contemplating the transfer of enriched uranium to Russia and may pause its enrichment activities while proposing a regional fuel production consortium.

According to a recent report by the Wall Street Journal, Iran is considering sending a portion of its enriched uranium to Russia, as suggested by diplomatic sources from the US, Iran, and the region. There are indications from Iranian officials that they might also halt their uranium enrichment activities for a period of up to three years while exploring the establishment of a regional consortium tasked with producing fuel plates from their enriched uranium, aimed at domestic use. These developments come amid ongoing diplomatic efforts, with US and Iranian representatives meeting in Geneva for talks mediated by Oman.

Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov has indicated that Russia would be willing to accept the enriched uranium should Iran decide on the transfer. Highlighting the context of these negotiations, Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Maria Zakharova reminded that any uranium sent to Russia would still belong to Iran, thereby maintaining a level of jurisdiction over the material. This potential agreement reflects shifting alliances and diplomatic maneuvers within the complex geopolitical landscape surrounding Iran's nuclear program.

The backdrop to these discussions includes US President Donald Trump's stronger stance on Iran's nuclear ambitions, demanding the complete dismantling of Tehran's nuclear program and the repatriation of its enriched uranium stockpile. Tehran has consistently rejected Trump's calls, illustrating the tensions and challenges involved in navigating nuclear negotiations. As these talks unfold, their outcomes could significantly impact not only Iran's nuclear capabilities but also its relationships with Russia and the United States, raising questions about regional security and nuclear non-proliferation efforts.

📡 Similar Coverage