A confidential Russian government document outlines a wide-ranging strategy for deepening ties and cooperation with Iran, including alternative payment systems, nuclear energy, aircraft-parts manufacturing, energy projects, and new transport links toward the Persian Gulf.&nbsp;&nbsp;The plan, reviewed by Fox News Digital, for the 2024-2026 timeframe was approved on September 2, 2024, and assigns specific ministries and state companies to projects with set deadlines. The 44-page Russian-language document, titled “Plan for Cooperation Between the Russian Federation and the Islamic Republic of Iran for 2024-2026,” is marked “For official use”.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-ships-in-indian-ocean-will-be-attacked-if-war-resumes-warns-iran-1789934092587">US ships in Indian Ocean ‘will be attacked’ if war resumes, warns Iran</a><h2>Seeking financial independence from the West</h2>&nbsp;The plan pushes for greater use of national currencies in trade and aims to raise their share of bilateral transactions from 68% to 71% by 2026, along with the development of central bank digital currencies for cross-border payments and independent channels for financial messaging outside systems like SWIFT. Analyst Keti Korkiya of the Foundation for Defense of Democracies analysed the Russian document for Fox News Digital and pointed out that the individual measures in the plan are less consequential than the overall architecture Moscow is building to preclude the impact of sanctions.&nbsp;The plan was drafted and approved after Moscow’s invasion of Ukraine and before the Iran War. Some of the measures mentioned in the plan have already been acknowledged publicly. Like, Russian officials said in February 2025 that bilateral settlements had largely shifted to national currencies using proprietary messaging systems, with Iran’s ambassador to Moscow adding that the countries no longer needed SWIFT.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-in-deciding-mode-on-iran-says-very-big-things-going-to-happen-soon-1789921963152">Trump in ‘deciding mode’ on Iran, says ‘very big things’ going to happen soon</a>&nbsp;A US official said Washington continues monitoring of any alternative payment mechanisms and insisted they cannot match the reach of the dollar-based financial system.&nbsp;<h2>Nuclear cooperation at Bushehr</h2>&nbsp;Russia’s Rosatom continues to shoulder the responsibility for Iran’s Bushehr nuclear plant, supporting Unit 1 and continuing construction on Units 2 and 3. Rosatom confirmed in September 2026&nbsp;that additional Russian specialists were expected to arrive&nbsp;for maintenance and fuel work.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/italy-to-ban-burqa-and-hijab-in-schools-limit-foreign-students-per-class-pm-giorgia-meloni-1789914231910">Italy to ban burqa and hijab in schools, limit foreign students per class: PM Giorgia Meloni</a>&nbsp;<h2>Energy projects and confidential financing</h2>&nbsp;The roadmap names Iranian oil and gas fields at Shadegan, Kish, and North Pars for Russian involvement, though funding sources for several projects are marked “Confidential”.News reports in February 2026 had confirmed that Russian state firm ZN-Vostok was developing Shadegan.&nbsp;<h2>Aviation manufacturing efforts</h2>&nbsp;Significantly, the plan seeks to start Iranian production of Russian aircraft components, with certification and localisation deadlines set through 2026. Things seem to have progressed on this front as well as Iranian firms were cleared to service Russian aircraft in early 2025.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-s-military-command-claims-us-planning-to-resume-strikes-american-embassies-issue-security-alerts-1789909017741">Iran’s military command claims US ‘planning’ to resume strikes; American embassies issue ‘security alerts’</a><h2>Focus on new transport corridors</h2>&nbsp;The document also envisions a Russian-gauge railway toward Iranian Gulf ports in the Persian Gulf and progress on the Rasht-Astara rail link, part of the International North-South Transport Corridor.&nbsp;In the latter project, engineering surveys began in May 2025.&nbsp;Moscow also sought to advance the Rasht-Astara railway, a roughly 162 km missing link in the International North-South Transport Corridor.&nbsp;<h2>Putin’s personal touch in the partnership</h2>&nbsp;Russian Energy Minister Sergei Tsivilev, who leads the bilateral commission overseeing this cooperation, is married to Deputy Defence Minister Anna Tsivileva, daughter of Putin’s late cousin, revealing a family connection that one European intelligence source called evidence of how highly Moscow prioritizes the relationship.&nbsp;Russian and Iranian officials did not respond to Fox News Digital requests for comment.

The plan pushes for greater use of national currencies in trade and aims to raise their share of bilateral transactions from 68% to 71% by 2026, besides the development of central bank digital currencies for cross-border payments and independent channels for financial messaging outside SWIFT.

A confidential Russian government document outlines a wide-ranging strategy for deepening ties and cooperation with Iran, including alternative payment systems, nuclear energy, aircraft-parts manufacturing, energy projects, and new transport links toward the Persian Gulf. The plan, reviewed by Fox News Digital, for the 2024-2026 timeframe was approved on September 2, 2024, and assigns specific ministries and state companies to projects with set deadlines. The 44-page Russian-language document, titled “Plan for Cooperation Between the Russian Federation and the Islamic Republic of Iran for 2024-2026,” is marked “For official use”. Also Read: US ships in Indian Ocean ‘will be attacked’ if war resumes, warns Iran Seeking financial independence from the West The plan pushes for greater use of national currencies in trade and aims to raise their share of bilateral transactions from 68% to 71% by 2026, along with the development of central bank digital currencies for cross-border payments and independent channels for financial messaging outside systems like SWIFT. Analyst Keti Korkiya of the Foundation for Defense of Democracies analysed the Russian document for Fox News Digital and pointed out that the individual measures in the plan are less consequential than the overall architecture Moscow is building to preclude the impact of sanctions. The plan was drafted and approved after Moscow’s invasion of Ukraine and before the Iran War. Some of the measures mentioned in the plan have already been acknowledged publicly. Like, Russian officials said in February 2025 that bilateral settlements had largely shifted to national currencies using proprietary messaging systems, with Iran’s ambassador to Moscow adding that the countries no longer needed SWIFT. Also Read: Trump in ‘deciding mode’ on Iran, says ‘very big things’ going to happen soon A US official said Washington continues monitoring of any alternative payment mechanisms and insisted they cannot match the reach of the dollar-based financial system. Nuclear cooperation at Bushehr Russia’s Rosatom continues to shoulder the responsibility for Iran’s Bushehr nuclear plant, supporting Unit 1 and continuing construction on Units 2 and 3. Rosatom confirmed in September 2026 that additional Russian specialists were expected to arrive for maintenance and fuel work. Also Read: Italy to ban burqa and hijab in schools, limit foreign students per class: PM Giorgia Meloni Energy projects and confidential financing The roadmap names Iranian oil and gas fields at Shadegan, Kish, and North Pars for Russian involvement, though funding sources for several projects are marked “Confidential”. News reports in February 2026 had confirmed that Russian state firm ZN-Vostok was developing Shadegan. Aviation manufacturing efforts Significantly, the plan seeks to start Iranian production of Russian aircraft components, with certification and localisation deadlines set through 2026. Things seem to have progressed on this front as well as Iranian firms were cleared to service Russian aircraft in early 2025. Also Read: Iran’s military command claims US ‘planning’ to resume strikes; American embassies issue ‘security alerts’ Focus on new transport corridors The document also envisions a Russian-gauge railway toward Iranian Gulf ports in the Persian Gulf and progress on the Rasht-Astara rail link, part of the International North-South Transport Corridor. In the latter project, engineering surveys began in May 2025. Moscow also sought to advance the Rasht-Astara railway, a roughly 162 km missing link in the International North-South Transport Corridor. Putin’s personal touch in the partnership Russian Energy Minister Sergei Tsivilev, who leads the bilateral commission overseeing this cooperation, is married to Deputy Defence Minister Anna Tsivileva, daughter of Putin’s late cousin, revealing a family connection that one European intelligence source called evidence of how highly Moscow prioritizes the relationship. Russian and Iranian officials did not respond to Fox News Digital requests for comment.

The plan pushes for greater use of national currencies in trade and aims to raise their share of bilateral transactions from 68% to 71% by 2026, besides the development of central bank digital currencies for cross-border payments and independent channels for financial messaging outside SWIFT.

Russian document details broad Iran cooperation plan across finance, nuclear and aviation sectors: Report

U.S. President Donald Trump has signed a sweeping Russia sanctions bill into law, targeting Russian officials, banks, energy revenues and the country’s shadow tanker fleet. The law also gives Trump authority to impose tariffs of up to 100% on major buyers of Russian oil and gas, potentially affecting countries including India and China.

Trump signs sweeping Russia sanctions bill into law 

A proposed 100% tariff is putting the spotlight on Russian buyers amid growing trade tensions. The move could raise costs for Russian buyers and affect trade flows. Watch WION for the latest developments and global trade updates.


Trump could impose tariffs of up to 100%

The United States is ramping up pressure on businesses helping Iran evade sanctions, threatening to cut them off from the American financial system. This has placed China in a difficult position. While Beijing may resist Washington’s demands, Chinese banks remain heavily dependent on access to the U.S. dollar and global financial networks. As tensions over Iran’s oil exports grow, China must balance its strategic ties with Tehran against the risks of facing U.S. financial penalties.

U.S. Sanctions put China’s banks in a bind over Iran oil trade

As tensions with Iran persist, U.S. President Donald Trump appears to be pursuing a dual-track strategy, combining intense economic pressure with repeated diplomatic openings. Washington has expanded sanctions, threatened secondary penalties and sought to isolate Tehran economically, while also signaling willingness for talks and offering potential off-ramps.


US-Iran war: US President Donald Trump continues to look for options to end Iran war 

Iran's currency has plunged to a new record low, with the rial reportedly weakening beyond 2.02 million to the U.S. dollar on the open market. The slide comes as Iranian households grapple with soaring inflation, rising living costs and the economic fallout of conflict and sanctions. Despite mounting pressure, Tehran says it is implementing a two-year economic recovery plan aimed at stabilising markets, boosting production and reducing the impact of sanctions.


Iranian Rial hits record low as inflation and sanctions bite

Iran has dismissed the latest U.S. sanctions threat as a sign of desperation, insisting that Washington's pressure campaign will fail to change Tehran's policies. The response comes as the Trump administration prepares what officials describe as the toughest sanctions package yet, targeting Iran and countries that continue doing business with it. Iranian leaders argue that years of economic pressure have failed to achieve U.S. objectives, while Washington says tougher measures are needed to increase pressure on Tehran. As tensions escalate, the debate is shifting beyond sanctions: who is becoming more isolated on the global stage—Iran or the United States?


US-Iran war: will Iran capitulate to increased US economic pressure?

Trump's economic war on Iran: Can Washington truly isolate Tehran? 

US-Iran war: Will Iran capitulate to increased US economic pressure? 

Iran has announced the discovery of more than 200 billion cubic metres of natural gas in southern Fars province, months into a Middle East war that has damaged the country’s energy infrastructure. Oil Minister Mohsen Paknejad said more than 160 billion cubic metres could be recoverable, with the field potentially producing around 280 million cubic metres of gas per day for 15 years.

7.5 trillion cubic feet of natural gas discovered in Iran amid war & sanctions 

The US-Iran conflict enters a new phase as Washington prepares sweeping “D-Day” sanctions targeting Iran’s economy. With the rial already under pressure and the Strait of Hormuz disrupted, the big question is how far the new sanctions will impact Tehran and ordinary Iranians.


US-Iran war: with the D-day sanctions, all eyes are on how Iran is impacted 

U.S. President Donald Trump has intensified pressure on Iran, warning countries against providing Tehran with any economic lifeline. The threat has put allies and trading partners on edge as Washington seeks to tighten economic pressure on the Islamic Republic. At the center of the debate is Iran's trade network, with China remaining the largest buyer of Iranian oil despite years of U.S. sanctions and diplomatic pressure. The developments are reigniting questions over the effectiveness of sanctions, global energy security and the future of Iran's economic ties.


Trump's 'economic d-day' warning for Iran raises stakes for global trade partners 

Russia has issued a stark warning to Western countries over efforts to disrupt its so-called shadow fleet, raising fears that the confrontation could spill into international shipping lanes.

Russian President Vladimir Putin has threatened retaliation if Western nations move to seize Russian vessels or assets linked to the shadow fleet. Moscow says such actions would amount to piracy and has warned that any response would not necessarily take place in the same waters.

The escalating tensions are creating a major challenge for Britain’s Royal Navy, which is already monitoring Russian warships and shadow fleet vessels around UK waters. Reports cited in the segment suggest concerns over whether the Royal Navy has sufficient ships, weapons and resources to protect commercial shipping across vast maritime routes.

As Russia and the West clash over sanctioned oil shipments, the world’s major shipping lanes could become the next arena of confrontation.

Russia Threatens Western Ships | Britain’s Royal Navy Faces Major Firepower Crisis

Tensions in West Asia have surged again after Iran launched a surprise strike on a U.S. military base in Jordan, ending days of relative calm and signaling what analysts believe is a major shift in Tehran's military strategy.

Unlike previous exchanges, Iran struck first instead of waiting for another U.S. attack. Experts suggest Tehran may now prefer a controlled, low-intensity conflict over a prolonged ceasefire that leaves sanctions and economic isolation unchanged.

The conflict is also reshaping global energy markets, with rising oil prices potentially benefiting countries like Russia, while China continues to strengthen its position in global energy and diplomacy.

Meanwhile, the human cost continues to rise. Reports indicate that 16 Indian nationals, including several seafarers, have lost their lives amid the ongoing regional conflict.

Iran Launches Surprise Strike on U.S. Base in Jordan | West Asia War Escalates | US- Iran War 

Tensions in West Asia continue to simmer despite the absence of a full-scale war, as Iran weighs military pressure against escalating regional risks. From surprise strikes to sanctions, blockades, and shifting strategic calculations, the conflict is entering a new phase with far-reaching consequences for regional stability and global security.

Sanction & Blockades: Why a ceasefire may not suit Tehran

A New York Times investigation has alleged that Russia has turned Japan into a key hub for espionage, covert procurement, and the sourcing of critical technology used in the Russia-Ukraine war. The report claims Russian intelligence officers operating under diplomatic and commercial cover have exploited Japan's relatively weak espionage laws to acquire sensitive components. Japan has acknowledged the need to strengthen its intelligence and counter-espionage capabilities, with Parliament approving a new national intelligence coordination body. The report also alleges that procurement networks routed military-use technology through intermediary countries to bypass export controls.

Japan tightens intelligence network after the NYT exposes alleged Russian spy operations

Cuban Foreign Minister Bruno Rodriguez has described negotiations with the United States as hitting a wall, with no breakthroughs made towards ending sanctions against the Caribbean island. "The discussions between the Cuban and US governments are showing no progress," Rodriguez told a news conference on Tuesday.

Cuba FM says 'no progress' in negotiations with US

Despite U.S. President Donald Trump's fresh threat to Iran, both sides agreed on a roadmap towards inking a final deal within sixty days. In a big development, U.S. lifted sanctions on sale of Iranian oil after claiming that Tehran agreed to allow free transit through Strait of Hormuz and IAEA inspections. Technical talks between U.S. and Iran are expected to continue in the next few days and weeks.


US Lifts Sanctions on Sale of Iranian Oil Amid Trump's Threat, Eyes 'Final Deal'

Russia is actively using the Caspian Sea as a strategic, covert, and overt maritime corridor to supply Iran with critical military components, helping Tehran rebuild its defense capabilities despite intense U.S. sanctions and a naval blockade. According to U.S. officials, this waterway allows Russia and Iran to move goods without facing typical sanctions enforcement in the Persian Gulf.


Russia Supplies Critical Weaponry to Iran via Caspian Sea Amid US Sanctions

Nicolás Maduro has once again appeared in a New York federal court, weeks after his dramatic capture by US forces and extradition over narcoterrorism and drug trafficking charges. In his first US court hearing, Maduro rejected the allegations and controversially described himself as a “prisoner of war” rather than a criminal defendant, arguing that his capture was a military act and part of a broader geopolitical struggle.


US: Nicolas Maduro, Wife Cilia Flores Battle US Sanctions in Court

The US has temporarily allowed India to buy Russian oil currently stuck at sea in an effort to keep global supplies flowing and temper further price increases.

The US treasury has issued a 30-day waiver allowing India to buy Russian oil, having previously imposed heavy sanctions related to the war in Ukraine.

Bessent: We May Unsanction Other Russian Oil

Russian President Vladimir Putin said Russia will continue to stand by Cuba as the Caribbean island faces sweeping US sanctions. The remarks came during a meeting with Cuba’s foreign minister, where both sides discussed potential support measures for Havana. The engagement underscores deepening diplomatic and economic coordination between Moscow and Havana amid ongoing geopolitical tensions and sanctions pressure.


Russian President Meets Cuban Foreign Minister, Discuss Support Measures for Havana | WION

US Blacklists Ships & Captains, Fuel Shipments to Houthis Targeted
US Sanctions Shipping Networks Funding Houthi Attacks

US Blacklists Ships & Captains, Fuel Shipments to Houthis Targeted

The US Revoked the sanctions exemption for Chabahar port development on Thursday. The decision comes as the US Aims to isolate Iran, especially over its support for terrorism and regional proxies. 


India To Continue Operating Chabahar Port: U.S. Extends Sanctions Waiver Till April 2026

The U.S. has imposed sweeping new sanctions on Russia’s biggest oil companies, targeting energy exports and financial networks that fund Moscow’s war economy. But critics say the West’s continued purchase of Russian oil through third parties exposes double standards. Are these sanctions truly about pressure—or politics? Here’s a full breakdown of what the sanctions mean for Russia, global energy markets, and Western credibility.


U.S. Sanctions Top Russian Oil Giants: Is West's Hypocrisy Showing Up Again? 

Russian President Vladimir Putin has issued a stern warning to the United States and Ukraine, saying that any use of US-supplied Tomahawk missiles by Kyiv would provoke an “overwhelming” response from Moscow. The statement comes just days after US President Donald Trump shelved a planned summit with Putin amid rising tensions and new sanctions on Russian oil firms. Despite the threats, Putin says dialogue with Washington will continue.

Putin: 'Dialogue is Always Better Than War'; Asserts Sanctions Don't Strengthen US- Russia Relations

President Trump delivers his hardest-ever punch to Putin by imposing sweeping sanctions on Russia’s oil giants. This move intensifies economic pressure on Russia amid ongoing geopolitical tensions..


Russia-Ukraine war: Trump's first sanction on Russia lead to a ceasefire?

The United Nations has imposed new sanctions on Iran over its nuclear programme, escalating tensions in the region. Meanwhile, Russia has accused Western nations of closing diplomatic channels, warning of rising global instability. The twin developments underscore deepening divisions over international security and nuclear oversight.

G7 urges Iran to cooperate after snapback | UN reinstates arms embargo

UN hits Iran with sanctions | Russia accuses west of shutting doors on diplomacy

The UN has officially reimposed sanctions on Iran over its nuclear program, further pressuring the Middle East nation that is already suffering global isolation and economic turmoil following previous rounds of punitive measures by the West.


Tehran rejects UN's sanctions as 'baseless', urges world to defy 'illegal' sanctions 

UN slaps Iran with snapback sanctions: France, Germany, and UK warns Iran against nuclear escalation

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