The leftist Chavez -- an outspoken critic of the United States -- said the South American country would develop a civilian nuclear energy program with Russia's help, El Universal reported Monday.

Last week Russian Prime Minister Vladimir Putin said his country was interested in aiding Venezuela in its nuclear ambition, a comment that raised concerns in Washington about the two countries drawing closer.

Chavez told Venezuelans during a national radio address Sunday that the program would however be for "peaceful means."