Amidst the conflict in Ukraine, Russian President Vladimir Putin’s forces have taken over Ukraine’s largest nuclear plant and targeted its power infrastructure. Despite this, Europe and the United States continue to rely on Russian nuclear fuel for their electricity needs.
Canadian-owned Westinghouse Electric is one of the recipients of low enriched uranium (LEU) from Russia for fueling commercial nuclear reactors in the U.S., as revealed by shipping data analyzed by CBC’s investigative team, 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 conditions until January 1, 2028.
Reports from the Bellona Environmental Transparency Center in Vilnius, Lithuania, show that in 2025 alone, the U.S. imported 400 tonnes of low enriched uranium from Russia, valued at approximately $1 billion US. Major recipients included subsidiaries of French-owned Framatome, Global Nuclear Fuel Americas, and Westinghouse.
While the U.S. enacted a ban, the European Union has not restricted the importation of Russian enriched uranium, and Canada has not sanctioned business dealings with Russia’s state atomic energy corporation, Rosatom, or its export arm, Tenex.
Experts emphasize the need for countries to reduce dependence on Russian nuclear supplies and discontinue cooperation with Russia during times of conflict and threats to Ukraine.
Westinghouse’s South Carolina facility processes enriched uranium into fuel pellets for nuclear reactors. The company’s ownership structure includes a majority stake held by Brookfield Renewable Partners and a minority stake owned by Cameco Corporation.
Cameco, a major uranium miner, reported lobbying efforts related to the Prohibiting Russian Uranium Imports Act but clarified that it does not handle enriched uranium directly, redirecting inquiries to U.S. utilities.
The U.S. Energy Information Administration does not disclose the total amount of uranium purchased from Russia due to data privacy measures but acknowledged Russia as a significant provider of uranium enrichment services to the U.S.
The U.S. and Europe have long relied on Russian enriched uranium, with efforts underway to enhance domestic production and reduce dependence. Westinghouse, a key player in the U.S. nuclear industry, has been involved in agreements to support Ukraine’s energy needs and reduce reliance on Russian fuel sources.