WANA (Mar 17) – Russia’s envoy to Vienna, Mikhail Ulyanov, has criticized Western nations for their “negative” stance on Iran’s nuclear program.

 

Speaking at a press conference, he revealed that Chinese and Russian representatives in Vienna are scheduled to meet with Kazem Gharibabadi, Iran’s Deputy Foreign Minister, who is currently in the Austrian capital.

 

He emphasized that these meetings are part of a structured diplomatic framework aimed at addressing nuclear concerns in a constructive manner.

 

Western Pressure on Iran

Ulyanov stated during the briefing that Western countries are pressuring Iran to withdraw from the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty (NPT).

 

His remarks came in response to concerns raised by Rafael Grossi, Director General of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), regarding Iran’s increased uranium enrichment levels.

 

Grossi had previously reported to the IAEA Board of Governors that Iran’s stockpile of 60% enriched uranium had risen from 182 kg to 275 kg since the last quarterly report.

 

He warned that Iran remains the only non-nuclear state enriching uranium to such high levels, a situation he described as “deeply concerning.”

 

Russia Calls for Diplomatic Solutions

In an interview with Izvestia, Ulyanov argued that the real threat to nuclear non-proliferation is not uranium enrichment but the failure of key stakeholders to engage in meaningful diplomacy.

 

He warned that the uncertain status of the 2015 nuclear deal (JCPOA) risks escalating tensions uncontrollably. “The best path forward is for all key players to return to the negotiating table,” he said.

 

He also defended Iran’s compliance with its safeguards agreements, stating that Tehran “conducts the highest number of inspections” and has shown willingness to cooperate with the IAEA.

 

However, he accused Western JCPOA signatories of undermining recent diplomatic efforts, citing their push for an anti-Iran resolution at the IAEA Board of Governors in November 2024, which he claimed disrupted negotiations ahead of Grossi’s visit to Tehran.

 

Russia, China, and Iran Strengthen Coordination

Ulyanov described last week’s trilateral meeting between Russia, China, and Iran in Beijing as “successful.” He noted that the three nations are aligning their positions on Iran’s nuclear issue and reaffirmed their commitment to resolving concerns through political and diplomatic channels.

 

Following the talks, a joint statement was issued, outlining a structured approach to addressing nuclear-related disputes.

 

Negative International Stance on Iran’s Nuclear Program

Commenting on the broader international climate, Ulyanov noted that the current discourse surrounding Iran’s nuclear activities remains overwhelmingly negative.

 

He warned that Western powers are pushing for punitive resolutions against Iran, accusing it of breaching its safeguard commitments. “There is no constructive path forward unless the United States signals readiness for renewed negotiations,” Ulyanov said.

 

He stressed that should talks resume, expanded trilateral meetings between Iran, Russia, and China would be increasingly necessary and beneficial.