US, UK concerned over potential Russia-Iran nuclear cooperation.
During their meeting, US President Joe Biden and UK PM Keir Starmer acknowledged the growing military cooperation between Russia and Iran.
They expressed worry that Moscow may have shared nuclear technology with Tehran in return for alleged ballistic missile supplies for the Ukraine war.
US Secretary of State Antony Blinken echoed the sentiment, saying Russia was sharing technology including on nuclear issues that Iran seeks.
Notably, Iran had agreed in 2015 to curb nuclear weapons ambitions but the deal collapsed after the US pullout in 2018. It has since breached limits on uranium stockpiling.
The West suspects Tehran is close to developing nuclear bombs, amid tightened Russia ties evident from the alleged missile transfer.
While Moscow did not deny the claims, it highlighted the expanding trade relations with Iran, including in sensitive areas.
Facing Western sanctions, Russia has turned to North Korea and Iran for arms, with Tehran allegedly helping build drone factories.
China has so far avoided providing weaponry but increased sales of non-strategic goods are propping up Russia’s defense production capabilities. The EU is also considering fresh Iran sanctions if its missile supplies to Russia are substantiated.
