St. Petersburg: Despite the intricate situation surrounding Iran, Russia continues to prioritize the Bushehr nuclear reactor project, Russian President Vladimir Putin announced during the plenary session of the 28th St. Petersburg International Economic Forum.

According to Namibia Press Agency, President Putin emphasized Russia's dedication to the project, stating that the completion of the Bushehr nuclear reactor is a testament to this commitment. Furthermore, Russia has entered into agreements to construct two additional reactors in Iran. U.S. President Donald Trump has pledged support for ensuring the safety of Russian employees working at the Bushehr Nuclear Power Plant, with Putin highlighting that Russia's activities in Iran adhere to international norms and include requests for safeguarding personnel in Bushehr.

Putin noted that around 250 Russian specialists are permanently stationed at the Bushehr site, with additional personnel deployed temporarily, bringing the workforce to approximately 600. He stressed that Russia has no plans to withdraw its workforce, underscoring the importance of Russian involvement in addressing potential threats to Iran's nuclear facilities and seeking peaceful solutions.

During an emergency UN Security Council meeting, International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) Director General Rafael Grossi expressed concerns over potential nuclear contamination from Israeli strikes on Iranian nuclear sites. He highlighted the operational status of the Bushehr Nuclear Power Plant, which contains significant quantities of nuclear material. Grossi issued a stark warning, stating that an attack on the plant could lead to a substantial release of radioactivity into the environment.