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Question: The media reported the other day that Tehran agreed to transfer enriched Iranian uranium to Russia under certain conditions during the negotiating process with Washington. What conditions are they talking about? Has Washington contacted Moscow on this issue lately?

Maria Zakharova: I would like to once again remind our principled stance regarding the unshakeable right of Iran to develop its civilian nuclear programme in accordance with the Treaty on the Non-Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons. Only the people of Iran can decide on how to exercise this right, including in the context of enriching uranium and nuclear materials owned by Iran.

Russia is completely determined to provide the required assistance to Tehran and Washington in implementing decisions that they can reach through talks. We are convinced that this issue can be resolved solely through political and diplomatic methods, respecting international law while duly heeding the interests of the Islamic Republic of Iran. 

I understand that you are interested in details of these negotiating processes, but this aspect remains behind closed doors so far.

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Question: Following the visits by presidents of Russia and the United States to China, developments around Iran emerged as a principal topic of discussions involving leaders of major powers. Are there realistic prospects for a peaceful settlement, or have new circumstances emerged that offer grounds for optimism regarding a possible agreement between the parties?

Maria Zakharova: Both Russia and China maintain the view that military strikes against Iran constitute a violation of international law and fundamental norms governing international relations. Such actions seriously undermine stability in the Middle East and severely affect the broader international environment.

We believe it is essential for all parties involved to promptly return to dialogue and substantive, good-faith negotiations in order to prevent further escalation of the conflict.

Moscow and Beijing call upon the international community to maintain an objective and balanced position, promote de-escalation, and jointly uphold the foundational principles of international law and international relations.

Question: Iran maintains that uranium enrichment constitutes its sovereign right, while the United States insists on zero-level enrichment. Does Russia see a compromise solution to this issue? Additionally, what role can Russia play in preventing a new conflict in the region that could trigger a further escalation?

Maria Zakharova: Russia’s position on this matter has been stated repeatedly and remains unchanged.

We believe that Iran’s right to develop peaceful nuclear energy, as provided for under Article IV of the Treaty on the Non-Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons, is inalienable. This right should not be questioned or restricted to accommodate the shifting political demands, policies, or preferences of individual states. At the same time, the Iranian people themselves must determine how to exercise this right responsibly, including in matters relating to uranium enrichment and the management of nuclear materials.

Accordingly, opportunities for mutually acceptable agreements remain possible. Russia remains prepared to provide the necessary support to all involved parties in implementing any decisions they may reach.

We are convinced that continued negotiations can contribute to reducing tensions and moving the situation toward a political resolution with an emphasis on searching for solutions, while addressing any ungrounded concerns regarding the peaceful nature of Iran’s nuclear programme on the basis of international law and with due respect for Tehran’s legitimate interests.

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