Russia, Iran discuss new joint nuclear projects amid ongoing tensions

Russia is seen as one of Iran’s most important allies, making Tehran’s relationship with Moscow during the recent US-Israeli war against Iran especially significant. This is particularly true amid ongoing tensions with Washington and in light of potential future challenges. To better understand the current state of Iran-Russia relations, the Tehran Times interviewed Alexey Dedov, Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the Russian Federation to Iran.

In the interview, Dedov explained that despite the recent bombardment of Iran, trade between the two countries has continued to grow. According to 2025 statistics, bilateral trade reached approximately $5.8 billion, a 21% increase over the previous year. Between January and April 2026, despite disruptions in logistics chains, trade still experienced moderate growth of 2%. The free trade agreement between the Eurasian Economic Union and Iran, effective May 15, 2025, has been a key factor, boosting trade between Iran and EAEU members by 15% in its first year. In the Persian year 1404 (March 2025 to March 2026), trade between Iran and EAEU members reached nearly $7.3 billion, with 22% growth. Russia remains Iran’s key trading partner within the union.

Dedov noted that the North-South International Transport Corridor is being increasingly utilized. During the first four months of 2026, Russian exports to Iran increased by over 56%, and total cargo volume along the route reached about 2.2 million tons, an 87% growth. He also highlighted the importance of completing internal procedures in Iran to enact the May 2023 intergovernmental agreement on mutual recognition of Authorized Economic Operators, which would establish favorable customs conditions.

Regarding reconstruction of Iran’s war-damaged infrastructure, Dedov stated that Russian industrial and construction companies, design institutes, and scientific centers possess unique technologies and capabilities. Upon receiving official requests from Iranian partners, Russia is ready to review them and offer specific proposals for cooperation.

On the Bushehr nuclear power plant, Dedov emphasized that the priority is ensuring the complete security of personnel and compliance with nuclear and radiation safety requirements. All decisions are made in coordination with the Iranian side. As soon as there is no risk of military conflict resuming, Rosatom employees will fully return to Iran to continue their activities.

Regarding other joint projects, Dedov confirmed that construction of the Rasht-Astara railway is ongoing, with technical studies and surveys being conducted. Aerial photography of the route is complete, and hydrometeorological studies are underway. For the Hormoz nuclear power plant, Russian and Iranian companies are consulting on the contractual framework. A meeting of representatives and experts is scheduled for late June or early July 2026 in Moscow.

On small-scale nuclear power plants, Rosatom continues consultations with the Atomic Energy Organization of Iran (AEOI). Negotiations are proceeding on contractual mechanisms and an intergovernmental protocol. These issues are regularly discussed at senior levels. Dedov welcomed AEOI head Mohammad Eslami to visit Russia.

Regarding privileges for Russian ships passing through the Strait of Hormuz, Dedov noted that currently, based on the Islamabad Memorandum, transit of commercial ships from the Persian Gulf to the Gulf of Oman and vice versa is free of charge for 60 days. The mechanism after this period is still being finalized. According to the report by the Tehran Times, the interview was conducted by Mona Hojat Ansari.