Amid the Russian military’s occupation of Ukraine’s largest nuclear plant and attacks on the country’s power infrastructure, Europe and the United States continue to rely on Russian nuclear fuel for their electricity generation.
Canadian-owned Westinghouse Electric is one of the recipients of low enriched uranium (LEU) from Russia, as per shipping data analyzed by CBC’s investigative program, the fifth estate. The U.S. had previously banned the import of Russian enriched uranium in August 2024 to reduce dependence on Russian materials and ensure a domestic fuel supply. However, the Prohibiting Russian Uranium Imports Act allows waivers under certain conditions, scheduled to expire by January 1, 2028.
In 2025, the U.S. imported 400 tonnes of low enriched uranium from Russia, valued at approximately $1 billion US. Major recipients included subsidiaries of the French-owned nuclear company Framatome, U.S. nuclear fuel supplier Global Nuclear Fuel Americas, and Westinghouse.
While the U.S. has taken steps to reduce reliance on Russian nuclear fuel, the European Union has not imposed a ban on Russian enriched uranium imports. Canada, while imposing sanctions on various entities and individuals, has not sanctioned Russia’s state atomic energy corporation Rosatom or its export arm, Tenex.
Efforts are being made to reduce dependence on Russian enriched uranium, with the U.S. and Europe seeking to bolster domestic production. Westinghouse, a key player in the U.S. nuclear industry, has received support for its agreements with Ukraine to supply fuel and construct new reactors, aiming to replace Russia as Ukraine’s nuclear fuel source.
Despite these moves, the challenge remains to transition away from Russian nuclear fuel due to its significant global market share. The dependence on Russian enriched uranium presents a complex situation that requires strategic planning and coordination among industry stakeholders.
The journey towards minimizing reliance on Russian nuclear fuel is ongoing, with various countries and companies taking steps to diversify their energy sources and enhance energy security.
