Russia Reiterates Uranium Processing Offer Amidst Heightened Iran Tensions

Kremlin Renews Offer to Process Iranian Uranium

The Kremlin announced on Monday, February 2, 2026, that Russia has reiterated its long-standing offer to process or store Iran's enriched uranium. This diplomatic initiative is part of Russia's ongoing efforts to de-escalate tensions surrounding Iran and to remove 'irritants' affecting several countries. Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov confirmed the offer, stating that this topic has been 'on the agenda for a long time' and that Russia continues to encourage dialogue between Iran and the United States.

Iran Rejects Transfer of Enriched Material

However, on the same day, Iran promptly rejected the notion of transferring its enriched nuclear material abroad. Ali Bagheri, Deputy for Foreign Policy at the Secretariat of Iran's Supreme National Security Council, stated that Iranian officials have 'no intention of transferring enriched nuclear material abroad' and that potential negotiations are not focused on such an issue.

Context of Iran's Nuclear Program

Iran's nuclear program has been a significant source of international concern for decades. While Tehran maintains its program is for peaceful civilian purposes, the country has historically pursued a secretive nuclear weapons project, known as AMAD, which reportedly ceased in 2003. The Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA), or Iran nuclear deal, signed in July 2015, aimed to limit Iran's nuclear activities in exchange for sanctions relief. However, the United States' withdrawal from the JCPOA in 2018 led Iran to gradually exceed the deal's limits on uranium enrichment.

Currently, Iran is stockpiling uranium enriched to 60% purity, a level considered close to weapons-grade, which typically exceeds 90%. As of May 17, 2025, Iran's stockpile of 60% highly enriched uranium (HEU) in the form of uranium hexafluoride stood at 408.6 kg (U mass) or 604.4 kg (hex mass), marking a net increase of 133.8 kg (U mass) since the previous reporting period. Iran is reportedly producing approximately 37.5 kg (U mass) or 55.5 kg (hex mass) of 60% enriched uranium per month. Russia previously played a role in the JCPOA by accepting Iran's excess enriched uranium.

Heightened Regional Tensions

The renewed offer from Russia comes amidst heightened tensions between Tehran and Washington. Reports indicate a significant US military presence, with a US 'armada' reportedly heading to the region. Iran's Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, has issued stern warnings against any military aggression towards the country, cautioning that such actions could ignite a broader regional conflict. Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov has also condemned recent US threats of military action against Iran as 'unacceptable,' emphasizing the potential for 'dire consequences' for the West Asia region and international security.