Amidst Russian President Vladimir Putin’s military occupation of Ukraine’s largest nuclear plant and assaults on the country’s power infrastructure, Europe and the United States continue to rely on Russian nuclear fuel for their electricity needs.
One of the recipients of low enriched uranium (LEU) from Russia for commercial nuclear reactors in the U.S. is Canadian-owned Westinghouse Electric, as per shipping data analyzed by CBC’s investigative program, the fifth estate.
While the U.S. halted Russian enriched uranium imports in August 2024 to reduce dependency on Russian materials and ensure a stable domestic fuel supply, the Prohibiting Russian Uranium Imports Act allows exceptions under certain conditions. These waivers are set to expire by January 1, 2028.
According to a report from the Bellona Environmental Transparency Center, the U.S. imported significant amounts of low enriched uranium from Russia in 2025, with major recipients including subsidiaries of French-owned Framatome, U.S.-based Global Nuclear Fuel Americas, and Westinghouse.
Despite the situation in Ukraine, the European Union has not imposed a ban on Russian enriched uranium imports, and Canada has not sanctioned business dealings with Russia’s state atomic energy corporation Rosatom or its export arm, Tenex.
Calls to reduce dependence on Russian nuclear fuel have been echoed by experts, with concerns raised about the implications of continuing cooperation amidst the ongoing conflict.
In response to the situation, various efforts are underway to reduce reliance on Russian enriched uranium and ramp up domestic production in the U.S. and Europe. However, transitioning away from this long-standing dependence is a complex process that requires time and strategic planning.
Westinghouse, a key player in the U.S. nuclear industry, has been involved in significant agreements and investments aimed at expanding nuclear capabilities. The company’s ties to various stakeholders, including government officials, highlight the importance of nuclear energy in the broader geopolitical landscape.
As countries like Canada explore new reactor projects that may necessitate enriched uranium, discussions around sourcing alternatives and ensuring energy security remain at the forefront of policy decisions.
Efforts to support Ukraine in its nuclear energy endeavors have also been noted, with companies like Cameco and Westinghouse engaging in agreements to supply fuel and contribute to the country’s energy infrastructure development.
The situation underscores the delicate balance between energy needs, international partnerships, and geopolitical considerations as countries navigate the complexities of the global nuclear industry.