WANA (Mar 10) – The spokesperson for Russia’s Foreign Ministry reaffirmed that Iran has no intention of developing nuclear weapons and remains committed to using nuclear energy solely for peaceful purposes.

 

In an interview, Maria Zakharova reiterated Russia’s stance on the peaceful nature of Iran’s nuclear program. When asked whether Russia might leverage its influence over Iran to slow down or halt its nuclear activities, she responded that Tehran has no nuclear weapons ambitions and is only interested in peaceful nuclear energy.

 

Zakharova also stated that Moscow does not rule out the possibility of Iran agreeing to limit its nuclear program and enhance transparency in exchange for the lifting of Western sanctions.

 

Reiterating Russia’s position that Western nations bear responsibility for the lack of progress in resolving Iran’s nuclear issue, Zakharova suggested that a diplomatic approach similar to the 2015 Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA) could help stabilize the situation.

 

While Iran has insisted that it will not negotiate as long as the U.S. maintains its “maximum pressure” policy, the Russian spokesperson emphasized: “We are ready for the closest level of cooperation with Tehran and all involved parties to reduce tensions and find sustainable solutions for an effective and long-term agreement.”

 

This marks Russia’s first official statement on Iran’s potential engagement since the Kremlin expressed willingness to help resolve the nuclear issue. Zakharova also confirmed that Russia and the United States plan to hold separate talks on the matter.

 

Additionally, she addressed Moscow’s interest in reviving its role in Israeli-Palestinian peace efforts amid improving U.S.-Russia relations. She noted that Russia is eager to re-engage as a partner in the Middle East peace process and supports the revival of the Quartet—a diplomatic group comprising the U.S., the United Nations, the European Union, and Russia.

 

Zakharova urged both Washington and Moscow to leverage their influence in addressing regional conflicts, including in the Middle East. She criticized the U.S. for disrupting the Quartet’s activities in recent years, stating that diplomatic communication on regional issues has been “almost entirely severed.”