The United States has intensified efforts to advance nuclear energy cooperation in Central Asia and the Caucasus region. Deputy Assistant Secretary of State for Security Programs Shawna J. Wilson recently traveled to both Armenia and Kazakhstan for high-level discussions aimed at expanding bilateral nuclear partnerships.
The U.S. has already established formal nuclear cooperation agreements with both countries. Armenia finalized a nuclear cooperation deal in February following a visit by Vice President JD Vance, while Kazakhstan signed a separate agreement in late 2025 that includes provisions for American training assistance to Kazakh nuclear technicians. American initiatives have centered on the development and deployment of small modular nuclear reactors as a clean energy solution.
In Kazakhstan, Wilson’s discussions emphasized Kazakh involvement in the FIRST program, a U.S.-led initiative that provides capacity-building assistance to nations developing nuclear energy capabilities. Kazakh officials confirmed mutual interest in expanding bilateral cooperation in peaceful nuclear applications. Kazakhstan is simultaneously pursuing the construction of three major nuclear facilities through partnerships with Russian and Chinese companies.
In Armenia, Wilson met with government officials overseeing nuclear capacity development. The country is evaluating options to modernize or replace its aging Metsamor nuclear plant, a project that has become a focal point of competition between Russia and the United States. While Armenian Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan previously expressed interest in small modular reactors, he recently signaled that such technology may not align with Armenia’s specific requirements, appearing to shift momentum toward Russian involvement. However, Armenian officials have indicated that the U.S. will continue to play a role in the country’s nuclear energy strategy.
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