Nuclear energy is experiencing a resurgence in global interest, driven by increasing electricity demand and a pressing need for reliable, emissions-free solutions. This renewed focus, however, coincides with heightened tensions in international relations, particularly surrounding Iran’s nuclear activities and Russia’s expanding influence in the sector.
Iran Suspends Cooperation with IAEA
On July 11, 2025, Iran announced the formal suspension of its cooperation with the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA). This decision stems from a new law that imposes significant restrictions on IAEA inspectors, who must now seek permission from Iran’s Supreme National Security Council to access nuclear facilities. This shift raises concerns about transparency in Iran’s nuclear program.
The new measures follow recent military actions by the United States, which targeted three Iranian nuclear sites, claiming to have severely damaged them. IAEA Director General Rafael Grossi warned that while the US strikes inflicted substantial damage, Iran could resume uranium enrichment within months. Concurrently, Russian officials have expressed willingness to assist Iran in replenishing its uranium stocks, further complicating the geopolitical landscape.
Russia’s Expanding Nuclear Partnerships
Russia, through its state nuclear corporation Rosatom, continues to solidify its position as a leading player in the global nuclear energy market. Recently, Russia secured bilateral agreements with Malaysia and Mali, focusing on the peaceful use of nuclear energy and collaboration in radiation technology and nuclear medicine.
These deals are part of a broader strategy that has seen Russia sign agreements with numerous countries, including Burkina Faso, Algeria, India, Egypt, and Turkey. Before the invasion of Ukraine, Russia accounted for nearly half of all global nuclear agreements. Despite opposition from Western nations, Rosatom remains a crucial component of Russia’s diplomatic efforts, providing comprehensive nuclear partnerships that carry significant geopolitical implications.
The United States Strives for Nuclear Diplomacy
While the United States has lagged behind Russia and China in nuclear energy exports, recent developments indicate a renewed effort to enhance its presence in the market. Following Russia’s agreements in Malaysia, the US signed a memorandum of understanding to foster strategic civil nuclear cooperation and initiated negotiations for a 123 agreement. This agreement aligns with President Donald Trump’s executive order aimed at pursuing at least 20 new civil nuclear cooperation agreements globally.
Additionally, US officials have expressed readiness to support the development of small modular reactors in Turkey, although progress remains modest. As Russia continues to build Turkey’s first nuclear power plant, the US is slowly formulating a more coordinated approach to counterbalance Russian and Chinese influence in the nuclear energy sector.
State-Level Advances in Nuclear Energy in the US
Several US states are taking significant strides in nuclear energy deployment. In Utah, a proposal has emerged for a uranium enrichment facility in collaboration with the Utah National Guard and a California startup, Utah Energy. This initiative follows President Trump’s announcement regarding the reopening of a uranium mine in Utah as part of a broader push for nuclear energy in the state.
Utah aims to double its energy production within a decade, having signed multiple agreements with nuclear developers. Governor Spencer Cox announced that Valar Atomics would construct a test reactor at the San Rafael Energy Research Center.
In Texas, a collaboration between Natura Resources and two universities is underway to establish the country’s first molten salt research reactor in 30 years, expected to become operational by late 2026 with state funding. Meanwhile, Wyoming is advancing TerraPower’s Natrium project ahead of schedule, benefiting from expedited regulatory reviews.
In the Midwest, Wisconsin has passed bipartisan legislation to allocate $2 million for a fusion siting study and establish a state nuclear innovation board. Furthermore, in the Northeast, New York Governor Kathy Hochul has directed the state Power Authority to develop plans for a one-gigawatt nuclear power plant.
The landscape of nuclear energy is evolving, with new opportunities and considerable challenges. As nations navigate the complexities of energy demands and geopolitical tensions, the role of nuclear energy is poised to become increasingly significant.
