CNN: US, Saudi Arabia reach preliminary civil nuclear deal

US President Donald Trump's administration has reached a preliminary agreement with Saudi Arabia that would allow limited domestic uranium enrichment and plutonium reprocessing, Report informs, citing CNN.

CNN, citing sources and documents, said the move could pave the way for Riyadh to develop nuclear weapons without international safeguards.

The draft agreement, known as a "123 Agreement," which sets out US support for Saudi Arabia's civilian nuclear program, has been awaiting Trump's signature since October 2025.

Experts said that without strict safeguards, the agreement could open the way for Saudi Arabia to acquire nuclear weapons. Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman has previously threatened to develop nuclear weapons if Iran builds its own bomb.

The agreement would provide the basic legal framework for US companies to transfer nuclear materials and technology to the recipient country's civilian nuclear program. However, it would not be the final word on whether Saudi Arabia would gain access to sensitive technology and materials.

There are two ways to produce nuclear weapons: uranium enrichment and plutonium reprocessing. Most countries that need uranium for nuclear reactors buy it from the United States or Russia, receiving the material in sealed batches under strict international supervision.

According to documents reviewed by CNN, the draft agreement does not require Saudi Arabia to adopt a standard agreement with the International Atomic Energy Agency on strengthened nuclear safety safeguards.