The Kremlin has stated that the situation surrounding Iran’s nuclear program has grown increasingly complex following recent hostilities between Iran and Israel. Dmitry Peskov, Kremlin spokesman, confirmed that Russia remains open to storing Iran’s uranium stockpile—a proposal previously discussed to ease tensions. However, he noted that the latest escalation has added new challenges to diplomatic efforts.

Peskov’s remarks came amid reports of Israel’s Operation Rising Lion, which targeted Iranian nuclear facilities, and Iran’s retaliatory missile strikes on Israeli military sites. The violence erupted just before anticipated indirect U.S.-Iran talks mediated by Oman, further complicating negotiations. Peskov emphasized Russia’s readiness to help resolve the crisis but acknowledged the sharp deterioration in stability.

The 2015 Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA) had initially eased tensions by limiting Iran’s nuclear activities in exchange for sanctions relief. However, the U.S. withdrawal under Donald Trump in 2018 derailed the deal. Despite Joe Biden’s efforts to revive it, negotiations stalled. With Trump’s return to the White House, Washington has taken a harder stance, threatening force if diplomacy fails.

As regional tensions rise, the Kremlin’s role as a potential mediator remains uncertain, with the conflict introducing new obstacles to a peaceful resolution.