St Petersburg, June 19 (UNI) Russia is prepared to support Iran's peaceful nuclear development while addressing Israel's security concerns, Russian President Vladimir Putin said Thursday during a meeting with the heads of leading global news agencies in St. Petersburg.
Without disclosing specifics, Putin confirmed that Russia has engaged in detailed discussions on this issue with both Israeli and U.S. officials, and has communicated proposals to its Iranian counterparts.
"In general, it is possible to meet Iran's interests in peaceful nuclear energy and at the same time address Israel's concerns about its national security," he said.
Putin noted that Russia has proposed a "possible solution" to the ongoing tensions surrounding Iran's nuclear activities, but stressed that the final decision rests with the political leadership of the countries involved.
Putin said that a high level of trust between Russia and Iran allows for productive cooperation in the peaceful use of nuclear technologies, including applications in agriculture and medicine.
Putin also recalled Russia's long-standing involvement in Iran's civilian nuclear program, including the completion of the Bushehr Nuclear Power Plant. Originally designed by German firms, the project was later completed by Russia's state nuclear corporation, Rosatom.
"It was a challenge, because we had to adapt the German design to Russian standards. But we succeeded, and the plant is operating successfully," Putin said.
He confirmed that Russia has signed contracts to build two additional reactor units at Bushehr, with over 200 Russian specialists currently working on-site. He added that Moscow has reached an agreement with Israeli authorities to ensure safety during ongoing construction efforts.
Tensions between Israel and Iran escalated on June 13 when Israel launched Operation "Rising Lion," targeting Iran's nuclear infrastructure. Iran responded with retaliatory strikes. Both sides reported casualties as the exchange of attacks continued in the following days.
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