Russia announced on Thursday that it is ready to evacuate its employees from Iran’s Bushehr Nuclear Power Plant if tensions between Tehran and Washington increase. Alexei Likhachev, head of Russia’s state nuclear company Rosatom, said that his country is keeping an eye on the situation. Keeping security in mind, a plan is being made in collaboration with the Foreign and Defense Ministries so that immediate action can be taken if needed.
What are Russia’s preparations and concerns?
The head of Rosatom told state news agency TASS that about 400 Russian technicians and their families are currently at the Bushehr site. Arrangements are being made to evacuate them if the situation worsens, although no final decision on their return has been taken yet. Russia has warned that any attack on this plant could bring a major catastrophe, which could be equal to the Chernobyl-like accident of 1986. At present the work in the plant is going on as per plan.
Why did tension increase between America and Iran?
The war of words between America and Iran has intensified in recent times. US President Donald Trump has warned that there is little time left for a new agreement on Iran’s nuclear program and threatened to face harsh consequences. In response, Iranian officials have made it clear that they will not negotiate under the pressure of any threat. In view of this tension, Russia has already started preparations for the safety of its citizens.
Rosatom: Russian government company that supports the Bushehr plant.
Islamic Republic of Iran: The country that operates the Bushehr Nuclear Power Plant.
United States Government: A country that puts pressure on Iran’s nuclear program.
Russian Ministries: Departments preparing for rescue operations.
