Moscow has approved a plan that would halt production of weapon-grade plutonium at three facilities by the end of 2006, the Associated Press reported today (see GSN, Jan. 30).

Russian Prime Minister Mikhail Kasyanov authorized the closing of two nuclear reactors in Siberia by the end of 2005 and another by the end of 2006.  A 1997 agreement with the United States to end plutonium production has been delayed by disagreements over Washington’s financial commitment to the effort, AP reported.

The reactors currently provide heat and electricity for their surrounding communities, so the United States has agreed to contribute to the construction of replacement power facilities, according to AP (Associated Press/Newsday, Feb. 11).

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