Amid Russia’s military presence at Ukraine’s main nuclear plant and its assaults on the country’s power infrastructure, Europe and the U.S. continue relying on Russian nuclear fuel for their electricity needs. Companies like Canadian-owned Westinghouse Electric receive low enriched uranium (LEU) from Russia to fuel commercial nuclear reactors in the U.S., as per shipping data analyzed by CBC’s the fifth estate. The U.S. banned Russian enriched uranium imports in August 2024 to reduce dependence and ensure a robust domestic fuel supply. However, the Prohibiting Russian Uranium Imports Act allows waivers in specific cases, set to expire by Jan. 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 French-owned Framatome, U.S.-based Global Nuclear Fuel Americas, and Westinghouse. The EU does not ban Russian enriched uranium imports, while Canada has not sanctioned business with Russia’s Rosatom or Tenex. There are calls to reduce reliance on Russia and end cooperation.

Westinghouse receives uranium shipments from Russia, processed into fuel for commercial nuclear power plants. The U.S. and Europe have long depended on Russian enriched uranium, with efforts to shift to domestic sources ongoing. Westinghouse plays a significant role in the U.S. nuclear industry, with plans for substantial investments in nuclear reactors. Proposed new reactors in Canada may require enriched uranium, prompting government initiatives to secure supply contracts. While Canada has imposed Russian sanctions, Rosatom and Tenex are not included.

Overall, countries are urged to avoid engagement with Russian state nuclear entities to curb support for Moscow’s actions. The focus is on supporting Ukraine, with companies like Cameco supplying uranium and Westinghouse aiding in fuel supply and reactor projects. Former scandals have led to changes in leadership within Ukraine’s nuclear industry.