Amid the occupation of Ukraine’s largest nuclear plant by Russian forces and the ongoing attacks on the country’s power infrastructure, European and U.S. reliance on Russian nuclear fuel for their electricity generation remains a significant concern.
Westinghouse Electric, a Canadian-owned company, is one of the recipients of low enriched uranium (LEU) from Russia for fueling commercial nuclear reactors in the United States, as revealed by shipping data analyzed by CBC’s investigative program, the fifth estate.
In August 2024, the U.S. implemented a ban on importing Russian enriched uranium to reduce dependency on Russian materials and ensure a robust domestic fuel supply. However, the Prohibiting Russian Uranium Imports Act allows for waivers under specific circumstances, with the waivers set to expire by January 1, 2028.
According to a report by the Bellona Environmental Transparency Center in Vilnius, Lithuania, the U.S. imported 400 tonnes of low enriched uranium from Russia in 2025, valued at approximately $1 billion US. Major recipients included subsidiaries of Framatome, Global Nuclear Fuel Americas, and Westinghouse.
While the U.S. has taken steps to reduce its reliance on Russian nuclear fuel, the European Union has not imposed a ban on the importation of Russian enriched uranium. Calls have been made for countries to decrease their dependence on Russia and terminate cooperation in light of the conflict in Ukraine.
The U.S. and Europe have long relied on Russian enriched uranium, with attempts to enhance domestic production underway. Russia supplies a significant portion of global enriched uranium, emphasizing the need for a gradual transition to alternative sources.
Westinghouse, a key player in the U.S. nuclear industry, has been actively involved in various agreements and initiatives to bolster nuclear energy infrastructure. The company’s ties to Russian nuclear entities have raised concerns, prompting calls for stricter sanctions against such engagements.
Efforts to support Ukraine’s energy sector have also been observed, with Cameco and Westinghouse forging agreements with Energoatom to supply fuel and develop new reactors, aiming to reduce dependency on Russian nuclear fuel sources.