Science
May 26, 20261
Rosatom Pledges Continued Support for Iran's Bushehr Nuclear Power Plant
Rosatom CEO Alexey Likhachev confirmed that Russia will fully meet its obligations to supply fuel and spare parts for Iran's Bushehr Nuclear Power Plant despite reduced Russian personnel on-site. The corporation maintains commitment to cooperation with Iran despite communication challenges caused by regional military tensions.
Quick Facts
- Rosatom to fulfill all obligations to supply fuel and spare parts for Bushehr NPP
- Reduction in number of Russian specialists at facility
- Iran operates and owns the first unit of Bushehr NPP
- Rosatom built the first unit and provides fuel and maintenance services
- Plans to develop further cooperation between Russia and Iran
Russia's state nuclear corporation Rosatom has reaffirmed its commitment to fulfilling all obligations to supply fuel and spare parts for Iran's Bushehr Nuclear Power Plant, according to CEO Alexey Likhachev. The statement was made in an interview with Al Jazeera on May 26, addressing concerns about potential disruptions to the facility's operations.
Likhachev clarified that while the number of Russian specialists present at the Bushehr site has been reduced, this has not impacted the plant's operational capabilities. He emphasized that Rosatom, which originally constructed the first unit of the facility, continues to supply fuel and provide maintenance services as needed, with all work conducted under strict approval from Iran's operating organization. The plant is fully owned and legally operated by Iran and its designated operating organization.
Despite challenges posed by regional military tensions that have reduced active communications, Likhachev stressed that Rosatom has not ceased its work in Iran. He outlined ambitious plans for expanding cooperation between the two nations, expressing respect for Iranian nuclear scientists' efforts to restart and advance the Bushehr project. According to the Rosatom chief, Iranian teams have begun restarting operations and bringing personnel to the construction site, with Russian specialists actively supporting their efforts. He noted that while communications have become less frequent due to military action, direct contacts remain uninterrupted.
Why This Matters
This commitment ensures continuity of operations at a critical regional energy infrastructure asset, maintaining stable nuclear energy supply for Iran despite geopolitical tensions. For international observers, it signals Russia's determination to preserve strategic partnerships and demonstrates the practical separation of nuclear cooperation from military conflicts. For Iran, it guarantees uninterrupted access to essential fuel and technical support needed to sustain and expand its nuclear power capacity.
Timeline & Sources
May 26, 2026
WireRosatom CEO Alexey Likhachev confirms commitment to supply fuel and spare parts for Bushehr NPP in Al Jazeera interview