CNN: The US opens the path for Saudi Arabia to uranium enrichment

The administration of US President Donald Trump has reached a preliminary agreement with Saudi Arabia that provides for permission for limited uranium enrichment and plutonium reprocessing within the country. This decision could open the way for Riyadh to develop nuclear weapons without international safeguards.

This is reported by CNN, citing sources and documents.

The draft nuclear agreement, called the "123 Agreement," which outlines US support for Saudi Arabia's civilian nuclear program, awaits Trump's signature, despite the fact that US-Saudi negotiations were concluded in October 2025.

"We have reached an agreement on cooperation in the field of civilian nuclear energy. Together, through bilateral safeguards agreements, we want to expand our partnership, provide Saudi Arabia with American nuclear technology, and firmly adhere to the principles of nonproliferation," Energy Secretary Chris Wright stated at the time.

According to experts, the deal could potentially open a path for Saudi Arabia to possess nuclear weapons if strict safeguards are not put in place. At the same time, the country's Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman had previously threatened to create nuclear weapons if Iran develops its own bomb.

The agreement represents the basic legal framework for the transfer of nuclear materials and technologies by American companies to the recipient country's civilian nuclear program. CNN notes that such transfers are subject to additional review, and the deal will not be the "final word" on whether Saudi Arabia will receive sensitive technologies and materials.

There are two methods for producing nuclear weapons — uranium enrichment and plutonium reprocessing. Most countries that need uranium for nuclear reactors purchase it from the United States or Russia, receiving the material in sealed batches under strict international oversight.

However, according to documents reviewed by the network, the draft agreement does not require Saudi Arabia to adopt a standard enhanced nuclear safeguards agreement with the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA).