ASIATODAY.ID, MOSCOW — President of Republic of Indonesia Prabowo Subianto’s visit to Moscow on Wednesday, December 10, 2025 marked a major turning point in Indonesia–Russia relations.
Beyond diplomacy and ceremonial protocol, the highlight of the meeting was Russia’s bold offer to assist Indonesia in developing nuclear technology for civilian energy use.
During a high-level discussion at the Kremlin, Russian President Vladimir Putin openly declared his readiness to help Indonesia build its nuclear capabilities—if Jakarta decides to pursue such cooperation.
“If Indonesia involves Russia, we are ready to support its nuclear technology development,” Putin said, according to an official Kremlin release.
The offer arrives at a crucial moment as Indonesia seeks long-term clean-energy solutions and prepares to expand its role as a full member of BRICS.
Talks Focused on Nuclear Cooperation, Regional Stability, and Strategic Partnership
The Kremlin confirmed that the meeting centered on strengthening the strategic partnership between Indonesia and Russia and addressing key global issues.
Yet nuclear cooperation stood out as the most consequential theme, with Russia positioning itself as a potential partner for advanced reactors, research collaboration, and long-term energy planning.
The two leaders also discussed regional stability in the Indo-Pacific, bilateral defense cooperation, and broader technology partnerships.
Prabowo Expresses Gratitude, Putin Offers Condolences
President Prabowo thanked Putin for the warm reception and highlighted the strong state of Indonesia–Russia relations. Putin expressed condolences for the devastating floods and landslides in Aceh, North Sumatra, and West Sumatra—an acknowledgment Prabowo deeply appreciated.
The Indonesian president also extended an invitation for Putin to visit Indonesia in 2026 or 2027.
“Don’t visit India only. We truly hope he will come to Indonesia,” Prabowo said jokingly.
Putin responded affirmatively:
“Thank you, I will come.”
Russia’s Nuclear Offer: A Strategic Opportunity—and a National Debate
Nuclear energy has resurfaced as a prominent topic in Indonesia’s long-term energy strategy, driven by rising electricity demand, decarbonization goals, and the country’s search for reliable baseload power.
A partnership with Russia—one of the world’s leaders in nuclear power and small modular reactors (SMRs)—could accelerate Indonesia’s nuclear ambitions.
However, major challenges remain: tight nuclear regulations in Indonesia, public concerns over nuclear safety and disaster risk, need for extensive infrastructure and skilled personnel, geopolitical tensions between Russia and Western powers.
Despite these hurdles, the conversation has clearly shifted: nuclear energy is no longer a distant concept but a live diplomatic agenda.
Russia Positions Indonesia on the Global Nuclear Map
Prabowo’s Moscow visit signals more than symbolic diplomacy. It marks the first serious push in years to bring Indonesia into the global nuclear conversation—with Russia offering to be at the center of that transition.
Whether Indonesia proceeds will depend on political will, public acceptance, and long-term national planning.
But one thing is clear:
The nuclear question is now on the table—and the world is watching Indonesia’s next move. (AT Network)
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