Amidst the Russian military presence at Ukraine’s main nuclear plant and assaults on the country’s power infrastructure, Europe and the United States rely on Russian nuclear fuel for their electricity production. A Canadian-owned company, Westinghouse Electric, is one of the recipients of low enriched uranium (LEU) from Russia for fueling commercial nuclear reactors in the U.S., according to shipping data analyzed by CBC’s investigative program, the fifth estate.
The U.S. implemented a ban on Russian enriched uranium imports in August 2024 to reduce dependency on Russian resources and ensure a robust domestic fuel supply. However, the Prohibiting Russian Uranium Imports Act permits waivers to the ban under specific conditions, such as the absence of alternative LEU sources or if the import serves national interests. These waivers are set to expire by January 1, 2028.
In 2025, the U.S. reportedly imported 400 tonnes of low enriched uranium from Russia, valued at approximately $1 billion US. Key recipients included subsidiaries of Framatome, Global Nuclear Fuel Americas, and Westinghouse. Notably, the European Union has not imposed a ban on Russian enriched uranium imports, and Canada has not sanctioned dealings with Russia’s state nuclear corporation, Rosatom, or its export entity, Tenex.
Efforts to reduce dependence on Russian supplies are urged, especially amidst the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. The U.S. and Europe have long relied on Russian enriched uranium, accounting for a significant portion of global supply. Despite intentions to diversify sources, the process of transitioning to alternative suppliers takes time and necessitates interim arrangements with existing providers.
Westinghouse Electric, a major player in the U.S. nuclear industry, has ties to Canadian and American companies but did not provide comments for this report. The company’s involvement in nuclear fuel production and distribution, coupled with international partnerships, underscores the complexities of the global nuclear energy landscape.
The significance of reducing reliance on Russian nuclear resources is underscored by geopolitical tensions and the need for energy security. Initiatives to bolster domestic production and establish alternative supply chains are crucial for enhancing energy independence and safeguarding against disruptions in the global nuclear fuel market.