US Reportedly Grants Preliminary Approval for Saudi Uranium Enrichment

Moscow (ANTARA) - The United States has given preliminary approval to Saudi Arabia to enrich uranium, but the draft agreement in its current form does not contain provisions aimed at preventing the development of nuclear weapons, according to a CNN report citing documents and several sources familiar with the discussions.

According to the CNN report, the draft agreement governing American support for Saudi Arabia’s civilian nuclear programme is still awaiting signature by President Donald Trump, although negotiations between the two parties were concluded in October 2025.

The outlet explained that the agreement, known as the ‘123 Agreement’ on nuclear cooperation between the United States and Saudi Arabia, is a framework governing the transfer of nuclear material and technology to Riyadh, whether through American companies or the United States government.

Nevertheless, the draft agreement has so far not been submitted to the United States Congress for review.

Several sources told CNN that the delay in approving the agreement has been influenced, among other factors, by the ongoing conflict in the Middle East.

Congressional sources also assessed that the delay is likely due to concerns that members of the United States Congress could block the deal.