IAEA's Grossi says met with Russia's Lavrov in Moscow

The International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) director general, Rafael Grossi, met with Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov in Moscow on March 14, 2026, to discuss regional security and nuclear non-proliferation issues, according to reports. This engagement followed earlier discussions between Grossi and Alexei Likhachev, CEO of Rosatom, Russia’s state nuclear energy corporation, on strategic non-proliferation measures and global nuclear energy development as reported.

During the Lavrov meeting, Grossi emphasized the importance of resuming negotiations with Iran over its nuclear program, stating that a "predictable, long-term agreement" remains a priority. However, he noted challenges in verifying Iran's compliance due to restricted access to nuclear sites and ongoing uranium enrichment activities according to IAEA sources. Lavrov's government has maintained that Iran has no evidence of weaponization, with Rosatom CEO Likhachev reiterating Russia's reliance on official reports from partner nations as stated.

Grossi also addressed concerns regarding the Zaporizhzhia Nuclear Power Plant (ZNPP), which remains in a conflict zone. He acknowledged ongoing military threats near the facility but praised Russian staff for maintaining safety protocols. Repairs to restore backup power lines at ZNPP were highlighted as critical to preventing accidents according to IAEA analysis. Additionally, Likhachev confirmed continued Russian efforts to construct nuclear icebreakers for the Northern Sea Route, despite geopolitical challenges as reported.

The discussions underscore the IAEA's focus on balancing nuclear energy development with non-proliferation goals, while navigating complex diplomatic and security dynamics in regions like West Asia and Eastern Europe.