Russia has said it is prepared to assist in resolving concerns over Iran’s enriched uranium stockpile as the world awaits the possible resumption of stalled nuclear talks between the United States and Iran.
Speaking during a visit to Beijing, Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov stated that Moscow is willing to play a role similar to its involvement in the 2015 nuclear agreement, which aimed to limit Iran’s nuclear programme in exchange for sanctions relief.
The 2015 deal, known as the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA), included Russia as one of its key signatories. Under the agreement, Russia previously helped transfer large quantities of enriched uranium out of Iran as part of efforts to reduce proliferation risks.
Lavrov said Russia is ready again to support a technical solution, including the reprocessing of highly enriched uranium into fuel-grade material and the possible transfer of some quantities to Russia for secure storage.
“This role can take a variety of forms, including the reprocessing of highly enriched uranium into fuel-grade uranium and the transfer of a certain amount to Russia for storage,” Lavrov said, adding that any arrangement must respect Iran’s right to peaceful nuclear enrichment.
He stressed that any solution must be acceptable to Iran and consistent with its sovereign rights, while still addressing international concerns over nuclear escalation.
Lavrov also said both Russia and China support renewed diplomatic efforts to end regional conflicts and achieve what he described as “realistic and fair goals.”
Earlier this week, a Kremlin spokesperson said President Vladimir Putin had previously proposed taking custody of Iran’s uranium stockpile, but the offer had not yet been accepted by the United States or Middle Eastern stakeholders.
Russia has maintained political support for Iran since the United States withdrew from the nuclear deal during President Donald Trump’s first term, a move that contributed to the current breakdown in the agreement and rising tensions over Iran’s nuclear activities.
