The presidents of Russia and Uzbekistan on Tuesday formally launched the main stage of construction of Central Asia’s first nuclear power plant, cementing Moscow’s role as a key energy partner in the region amid the Kremlin’s ongoing isolation in the West.
During a phone call, Vladimir Putin and Shavkat Mirziyoyev noted the start of concrete works at the site of the future Russian-designed nuclear plant. The project, discussed for years, moved into an active phase on March 24, 2026, which experts view as a strategic victory for Moscow in its competition for influence in the former Soviet bloc.
On the same day, Uzatom and Rosatom signed documents on long-term cooperation and the development of the project. According to Uzatom, the project provides for the construction of a combined-type nuclear power plant, including two power units with VVER-1000 reactors and two power units with RITM-200N reactors. Construction began with the preparation of the foundation for the reactor of a small-capacity power unit with a RITM-200N reactor.
Nuclear leverage and “soft power”
For Tashkent, the nuclear project is a response to a chronic electricity shortage that has been slowing growth in the 38-million-strong republic – according to Uzatom, once commissioned, the plant will provide more than 15% of the country’s electricity demand. For Moscow, it is a tool for long-term geopolitical presence: nuclear contracts bind countries through decades of technological dependence and servicing.
The Kremlin press service emphasized that the project is being implemented amid the “comprehensive strengthening of the strategic partnership.” In addition to nuclear energy, the leaders discussed the launch of a new copper processing plant in Almalyk equipped with Russian machinery, underscoring Russia’s industrial expansion into Uzbekistan’s mining sector.
Diplomatic maneuvering
Despite Western sanctions against Russia over its military aggression against Ukraine, Tashkent is demonstrating a pragmatic approach. According to Uzbek data, bilateral trade surged by 32% at the start of 2026, reaching record growth rates.
However, differences in diplomatic emphasis are evident in the official readouts:
- Moscow highlighted discussions on conflicts in the Middle East and Ukraine, signaling the presence of a partner ready for a “substantive exchange of views” on global issues.
- Tashkent expanded the geographic scope in its communiqué, including the situation in South Asia (likely referring to Afghanistan), and emphasized preparations for the INNOPROM industrial exhibition in April.
Context
The construction of a nuclear power plant in Uzbekistan is drawing close international attention not only for safety reasons, but also as an indicator of the resilience of Russian high-tech exports. As Western countries reduce energy ties with Russia, Central Asia is becoming a critical foothold for Rosatom and Russian engineering.
The next milestone is expected to be a visit by a Russian delegation to Tashkent next month, where economic issues are likely to be intertwined with regional security concerns.