Russia says resolution of Iran nuclear issue possible with political will

Russia believes that the situation surrounding Iran’s nuclear programme can be resolved if all parties demonstrate sufficient political will, according to a senior Russian Foreign Ministry official.

Oleg Postnikov, director of the Foreign Ministry’s Department for Non-Proliferation and Arms Control, said in an interview with the state news agency RIA Novosti that Moscow considers a negotiated solution to be achievable and would welcome any progress toward resolving the issue.

Postnikov said Russia values Iran’s adherence to its commitments under the Treaty on the Non-Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons (NPT) as well as its safeguards agreement with the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA). He added that Moscow hopes Iran will continue constructive cooperation with the IAEA, including the restoration of verification measures that, in Russia’s view, were weakened by the actions of some Western countries.

At the same time, Postnikov accused those Western states of undermining negotiations despite publicly expressing support for a diplomatic settlement of the Iranian nuclear issue.

International efforts to address Iran’s nuclear program have faced repeated setbacks in recent years, with talks stalled amid rising tensions between Tehran and Western powers.

By Sabina Mammadli