Letters from members of the House of Representatives and the Senate last week expressed widespread unease on Capitol Hill about links between Moscow and Iran. Washington believes that Tehran harbors ambitions to acquire a nuclear weapon.
"Prior to consideration of this agreement, Congress needs a detailed assessment of Russian assistance to all aspects of Iran's nuclear and missile programs," said a letter to Bush from the House.
In the Senate, a missive to Bush signed by 32 senators said Russia's "increasingly abrasive foreign policy" was one reason Bush should not send the civilian nuclear-cooperation deal to Congress for review.
Russia and the United States on Tuesday signed the pact allowing the world's two biggest atomic powers to boost their nuclear trade.
A Message from The Moscow Times:
Dear readers,
We are facing unprecedented challenges. Russia's Prosecutor General's Office has designated The Moscow Times as an "undesirable" organization, criminalizing our work and putting our staff at risk of prosecution. This follows our earlier unjust labeling as a "foreign agent."
These actions are direct attempts to silence independent journalism in Russia. The authorities claim our work "discredits the decisions of the Russian leadership." We see things differently: we strive to provide accurate, unbiased reporting on Russia.
We, the journalists of The Moscow Times, refuse to be silenced. But to continue our work, we need your help.
Your support, no matter how small, makes a world of difference. If you can, please support us monthly starting from just $2. It's quick to set up, and every contribution makes a significant impact.
By supporting The Moscow Times, you're defending open, independent journalism in the face of repression. Thank you for standing with us.
Remind me later.