Iran and Russia Partner on New Nuclear Plant Amid US Negotiations

Iran and Russia have confirmed a partnership to build a new nuclear plant in Iran, funded using Moscow's credit line. The agreement was announced by Iranian Oil Minister Mohsen Paknejad after a meeting with Russian Minister of Energy Sergei Tsivilev in Moscow.

The two countries will strengthen cooperation in "peaceful" nuclear energy, with Russia providing funding for the construction of the new nuclear plant. Paknejad also announced that Iran and Russia would complete phases two and three of the Bushehr power plant using Moscow's credit line.

The partnership comes as US and Iranian officials hold negotiations surrounding Iran's nuclear program. Steve Witkoff, President Donald Trump's envoy to the Middle East, and Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araqchi met in Oman for the third round of nuclear talks, which were described as constructive.

Trump expressed optimism about the negotiations, saying "the Iran situation is coming out very well" and that he believes a deal can be reached. He added that some people want to make a "nastier deal," but he wants to avoid that if possible.

In addition to the nuclear partnership, Iran and Russia have agreed to a transfer deal of 55 billion cubic meters of gas. Paknejad also announced that Iran plans to sign a $4 billion deal to construct seven oil fields in Iran by partnering with Russian companies.

The partnership between Iran and Russia is part of a broader strategic cooperation agreement between the two countries. Russian President Vladimir Putin recently signed a law ratifying a 20-year strategic partnership agreement with Iran, which includes increased collaboration on military drills, joint officer training, security services, and warship port visits.