Russia offers to store Iran’s enriched uranium as talks with US stall, says Vladimir Putin

Russia has renewed its offer to take custody of Iran’s enriched uranium as part of a potential agreement with the United States, signalling an attempt to revive stalled diplomatic efforts amid rising tensions in West Asia. The proposal, initially put forward by Vladimir Putin, has been reiterated as negotiations between Washington and Tehran have failed to produce a breakthrough.

According to the Kremlin, the idea involves Russia storing Iran’s enriched uranium stockpiles as a confidence-building measure aimed at easing concerns and facilitating a broader settlement. Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov stated that the proposal had been discussed with both the United States and regional stakeholders and remains available, although it has not yet been implemented.

The renewed outreach comes after recent rounds of US-Iran talks ended without progress, dampening hopes of a swift resolution to the ongoing conflict that has caused significant casualties and disrupted global markets since late February. The uranium issue continues to be a central sticking point in negotiations, with both sides struggling to find common ground.

Separately, Russia criticised recent US threats to blockade the Strait of Hormuz, warning that such actions could destabilise global energy markets further. The Kremlin indicated that any escalation in this strategically critical region could have far-reaching economic consequences, particularly for international oil supplies.

In parallel diplomatic efforts, Putin held a phone conversation with Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian, reiterating Russia’s commitment to supporting a political and diplomatic resolution. Despite the stalemate, global leaders continue to push for dialogue, with attention now focused on whether Russia’s uranium storage proposal can help bring both sides back to the negotiating table.