Iran to Send Enriched Uranium to Russia: Nuclear Deal Talks

Iran is considering transferring enriched uranium to Russia, according to reports citing diplomatic sources. The potential move, indicated by Iranian officials, comes as Tehran seeks to de-escalate tensions with the United States and potentially restart negotiations over its nuclear program.

The Wall Street Journal, citing U.S., Iranian, and regional diplomats, reported that Iranian officials have suggested they might halt uranium enrichment for up to three years. They also proposed establishing a regional consortium to produce fuel plates from enriched uranium for domestic apply. Discussions took place Tuesday in Geneva, mediated by Oman, between U.S. And Iranian teams.

Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov confirmed earlier this month that Moscow is prepared to accept uranium from Iran should Tehran decide to transfer it. “This initiative remains on the table. At the same time, we must remember that the uranium stocks belong to Iran,” stated Russian Foreign Ministry spokesperson Maria Zakharova, as reported by WION.

The potential transfer of uranium is occurring against a backdrop of longstanding U.S. Demands for Iran to dismantle its nuclear program and relinquish its existing enriched uranium stockpile – demands that Iran has consistently rejected. Former U.S. President Donald Trump had insisted on complete dismantling, a position that has not been publicly altered by the current administration.

Reuters reported that Russia has affirmed the uranium proposal remains an option. The move could be seen as a potential pathway for reconciliation between Iran and the U.S., though significant obstacles remain. The United States has not publicly commented on the specific proposal for uranium transfer, and the details of the Geneva talks remain largely undisclosed.