Vienna — The International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) said it has helped coordinate the removal of 13 kilograms of high enriched uranium (HEU) from Venezuela to the United States, in a tightly controlled mission aimed at reducing nuclear proliferation risks.

The uranium, enriched just above 20% in uranium-235, was taken from the RV-1 research reactor at the Venezuelan Institute for Scientific Research (IVIC), which has been shut down since 1991.

The shipment was carried out in late April under military escort from Caracas to Puerto Cabello, where the fuel was loaded onto a UK vessel bound for the Savannah River Site in South Carolina. It arrived safely in early May.

“This has been an example of strong will, effective coordination, dedication, and professionalism of all the parties involved,” IAEA Director General Rafael Grossi said.

U.S. State Department official Christopher T. Yeaw added that the operation showed how partnerships can “eliminate nuclear proliferation risks and enhance global nuclear security.”

The IAEA provided safety and security guidance, training, and technical expertise while applying safeguards throughout the transport.

The Venezuelan government requested assistance, and the U.S. agreed to accept the material and supply specialized transport containers. The UK contributed maritime support.

The mission is part of a broader international effort to phase out HEU from research reactors, most of which were built in the 1960s and 70s. Today, similar scientific work can be conducted using low-enriched uranium (LEU), which carries far lower proliferation risks.

According to the IAEA, 111 reactors and isotope facilities have been converted or shut down, and more than 6,930 kilograms of HEU have been repatriated or dispositioned worldwide.