Moscow signals readiness to power Sri Lanka’s nuclear future, but stresses the decision lies entirely in Colombo’s hands.
Russia has reaffirmed its willingness to cooperate with Sri Lanka in developing nuclear energy but emphasized it will not pressure Colombo into making such a commitment. Speaking to the press on Thursday, Russian Ambassador Levan Dzhagaryan said he is seeking a meeting with Sri Lanka’s Energy Minister to advance discussions on the proposal.
“The ball is in your court, as I always say,” the Ambassador remarked, making clear that Russia respects Sri Lanka’s sovereign right to decide.
Sri Lanka has considered nuclear power under successive governments as part of efforts to diversify its energy mix. A previous administration even floated plans to construct three nuclear plants with a combined capacity of 900 megawatts.
During his visit last year, Dzhagaryan met with the Energy Minister and senior Foreign Ministry officials after consultations with Rosatom, Russia’s state nuclear agency. The concept presented involved establishing a small nuclear facility of 110 megawatts, consisting of two 55-megawatt units, with potential expansion up to six units depending on future demand.
The Ambassador also commented on the ongoing Russia-Ukraine conflict, thanking Sri Lanka for maintaining a neutral stance despite Western pressure. He reiterated that Russia cannot be defeated in the war, underscoring Moscow’s resilience.
For Sri Lanka, grappling with an energy crisis and rising costs of fossil fuel imports, nuclear power remains a potential game-changer. Advocates argue it could provide stable, low-carbon energy, while critics point to safety, cost, and geopolitical risks. With Russia leaving the final decision to Colombo, the future of nuclear cooperation rests entirely on how Sri Lanka balances its energy ambitions with political realities.
