MOSCOW, Feb 2 - The Kremlin said on Monday that Russia remains engaged in efforts to reduce tensions tied to Iran and reiterated that it previously offered to take part in handling Iran's enriched uranium.
When asked whether Moscow was in talks with Tehran and Washington about the possibility of accepting Iranian enriched uranium, Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov responded: "This topic has been on the agenda for a long time."
Peskov emphasized that the proposal is not new, saying: "Russia has been offering its services for quite a long time as a possible option that would lead to the removal of certain irritants for a number of countries."
He added that Russia is maintaining diplomatic contacts with all parties interested in the matter and reiterated Moscow's willingness to act where it can to calm tensions around Iran. "Right now, Russia is continuing its efforts, continuing its contacts with all interested parties, and maintains its readiness to de-escalate tensions around Iran to the best of its ability," he said.
Context and reporting
The Kremlin's remarks on Feb. 2 reiterated a position Moscow has described as an available option in discussions over Iran's enriched uranium. The spokesman framed the offer as a long-standing proposal that could remove "certain irritants" for multiple countries, and he said Russia is pursuing dialogue with interested parties while signalling ongoing readiness to help lower regional tensions.
Key points
- Russia says it is actively trying to de-escalate tensions surrounding Iran and continues diplomatic contacts with relevant parties.
- Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov confirmed the idea of Russia processing or storing Iran's enriched uranium has been on the agenda for a long time and described it as a long-standing offer.
- Moscow states it is prepared to assist in de-escalation efforts "to the best of its ability."
Sectors potentially relevant
- Energy - given the subject of enriched uranium and regional tensions.
- Defense and geopolitics - as diplomatic efforts and national security considerations are implicated.
Risks and uncertainties
- Uncertainty over whether the long-discussed option of Russia taking Iranian enriched uranium will be implemented or accepted by all parties.
- Diplomatic outcomes remain unclear despite Moscow's stated readiness to engage and de-escalate.
Note: The article reflects official statements made by the Kremlin spokesman and does not present additional outcomes or determinations beyond those remarks.