BREAKING NEWS

US, Russia and Frace criticize Iran's uranium enrichment

VIENNA  — The US, Russia and France say that Iran'sproject to enrich uranium to a higher degree is raising fresh concernsabout its nuclear intentions.

Their joint statement is criticalof Teheran's decision to enrich to the 20-percent level, saying itrepresents "a further step toward a capability to produce highlyenriched uranium."

The confidential joint statement was shared Tuesday with The Associated Press.

Uranium enriched up to 90 percent is used toarm nuclear warheads. Iran says its enrichment program is peaceful, butthe international community fears it is a cover for plans to developsuch weapons.