By Salma El-Sakka
Russia's state nuclear corporation Rosatom will increase its workforce at Iran's Bushehr nuclear power plant to 200 staff this November, Director General Alexei Likhachev announced on Wednesday.
Rosatom Expands Presence
The move brings staffing levels in line with the project schedule after Rosatom evacuated hundreds of workers following the outbreak of a US-Israel led war in February. Likhachev said the company is building two new nuclear units at the Bushehr site.
Optimistic Scenario Amid Risks
“Of course, a possible escalation in the military situation could have an impact. We are preparing for that, but now we are proceeding on the basis of an optimistic scenario,” Likhachev told reporters.
Russia-Iran Nuclear Partnership Deepens
The expansion reflects strengthening nuclear cooperation between Moscow and Tehran. In September 2025, the two countries signed an agreement to build the Sirik nuclear power plant in Iran's Hormozgan Province near the Strait of Hormuz, a deal worth £25 billion with a combined capacity of about five gigawatts.
Sanctions Drive Closer Ties
Both nations face extensive Western sanctions. Russia has been under sanctions since its full-scale invasion of Ukraine in February 2022, targeting energy, finance, trade and defence. Iran has faced decades of sanctions over its nuclear program, ballistic missile development and regional activities. The restrictions have spurred both countries to develop alternative trade routes and technological cooperation.
