Russia’s Secret Plan with Iran: Financial and Strategic Moves

Fox News Digital has obtained a confidential Russian government document revealing Moscow’s plans to enhance its relationship with Iran. This document goes beyond standard trade agreements and includes initiatives like new financial channels, nuclear cooperation, and the Iranian production of Russian aircraft components.

Financial Mechanisms and Sanctions Evasion

The document titled “Plan for Cooperation Between the Russian Federation and the Islamic Republic of Iran for 2024-2026” highlights alternative financial channels and aims to counter U.S. sanctions. Russia and Iran have set goals to increase their bilateral trade share conducted in national currencies from 68% in 2024 to 71% by 2026. They intend to develop central bank digital currencies for cross-border settlements and create independent systems for transmitting financial messages.

A U.S. official commented that while Russia and Iran attempt to create alternative financial channels, they cannot match the reach, liquidity, or trust of the U.S. dollar and its global system.

Nuclear and Energy Cooperation

The roadmap shows Russia’s commitment to Iran’s nuclear sector and includes continued support from Rosatom at Iran’s Bushehr nuclear power plant. Russian specialists have begun returning to Bushehr for maintenance and fuel delivery, supporting existing Unit 1 operations and continuing construction on Units 2 and 3.

The document also identifies Iranian oil and gas fields like Shadegan, Kish, and North Pars for Russian involvement. Financing details remain confidential, but evidence indicates progress in some projects.

Transportation and Trade Routes

Another focus is strengthening transportation links between Russia and Iran, including plans for a railway from Iran’s border with Azerbaijan to its Persian Gulf ports and advancing the Rasht-Astara railway as part of the International North-South Transport Corridor.

Aviation and Technology Collaboration

The roadmap includes unusual provisions for Iran to produce parts for Russian aircraft and outlines goals for Russian companies to secure contracts involving technology and “information security” with Iranian firms.

Political and Media Coordination

Russia and Iran plan to coordinate efforts against unilateral trade restrictions through BRICS and other platforms. The roadmap also proposes media collaboration and training of journalists for joint production.

Conclusion

This extensive plan to build cooperation suggests that Russia views Iran as a strategically aligned partner, aiming to develop this partnership into a durable framework with institutional support and politically significant endeavors.