Iran in secret talks with Russia for assistance on nuclear program – media

Kremlin's press service announced this, according to Interfax.

On Friday, January 17, talks will take place between Putin and Pezeshkian, who will arrive in Moscow on an official visit.

"The discussions are expected to cover prospects for further expanding bilateral cooperation, including in trade and investment, transport and logistics, and humanitarian sectors, as well as pressing issues on the regional and international agenda," the Kremlin stated.

Following the talks, Putin and Pezeshkian will sign a "comprehensive strategic partnership" agreement and make statements to the media.

Iran's secret diplomatic missions to Russia

At the same time, according to The Times, Iran is conducting secret diplomatic missions to Russia seeking Kremlin's assistance in advancing Tehran's nuclear program and improving its air defense capabilities.

"Iran is conducting secret diplomatic missions to Russia to bolster its military and defense capabilities, despite upcoming talks with the West aimed at reviving the nuclear deal," the article states.

According to the publication's sources, Ali Larijani, a senior adviser to Iran's Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, has been making secret flights to Russia for meetings with high-ranking Russian officials. The goal of these efforts is to secure Russian assistance in advancing Iran's nuclear program.  

Larijani, a former speaker of the Iranian parliament who previously led nuclear negotiations, is said to play a key role in these covert talks. His secret flights to Moscow highlight the deepening ties between Iran and Russia and the growing leverage they hold over one another.

A Western intelligence source quoted by The Times noted that the deepening strategic ties between Iran and Russia, combined with Moscow's reliance on Tehran for missile and drone supplies, raise concerns. The source stated, "There is worry that Moscow may be willing to cross previously established red lines in Iran's nuclear program."

• On January 8, marks the 5th anniversary of the crash, when Iran killed 176 people on board Ukraine International Airlines flight PS752.