Russia offers to remove Iran’s uranium, proposal still “on the table”

Russia has reiterated its readiness to assist in the removal of highly enriched uranium from Iran, according to Deputy Foreign Minister Sergei Ryabkov, who said Moscow has repeatedly presented this proposal to the United States.

Speaking about the initiative, Ryabkov emphasised that Russia is prepared to take part in what he described as a sensitive operation directly linked to nuclear non-proliferation efforts. He noted that the proposal, previously voiced by the Russian president, remains fully in place.

“Our proposal, which the Russian president has spoken of on numerous occasions, to transport the material to Russia in a sequence of steps acceptable to both sides, so that ultimately this material is used to produce fuel for Iranian reactors — this proposal remains on the table, in full. We are not withdrawing it, are we?” said Ryabkov.

He added that the positions of both Russia and Iran are well understood in Washington. At the same time, the diplomat stressed that Moscow is not attempting to pressure any party but is simply making its position clear.

“We are not imposing anything on anyone,” he said.

Earlier, on May 25, reports indicated that Iran had expressed willingness to remove highly enriched uranium from its territory as part of broader efforts to ease tensions with the United States. However, Tehran is reportedly insisting that any such transfer be directed to China rather than Russia.

“Iran is ready to remove highly enriched uranium from its territory,” a broadcaster quoted sources as saying, adding that shipment to China has been set as a key condition by Tehran.

According to the same sources, Iran is also seeking guarantees from Beijing before proceeding with further negotiations with Washington.

By Tamilla Hasanova