Heading: Examining Western Efforts to Reduce Dependence on Russian Nuclear Industry
**Title: Western Powers Working to Reduce Dependence on Russian Nuclear Industry**
In the aftermath of Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, the European Union and the United States have taken measures to reduce their dependence on the Russian nuclear industry. While sanctions on Russian oil and gas have been swift, the nuclear sector poses unique challenges. Western policymakers are now focusing on developing their own nuclear industries to achieve energy security and decrease reliance on Russian imports.
**US Initiatives:**
The US House of Representatives passed a bill in December prohibiting the import of Russian low-enriched uranium until 2040, with waivers available until 2028 if alternative supplies are unavailable. Ten Rosatom subsidiaries have been sanctioned by the US, mostly related to non-nuclear operations like construction and defense industry cooperation. However, key Rosatom subsidiaries providing advanced nuclear fuel cycle services have not been affected by sanctions.
The US has been working on increasing domestic production of nuclear materials and developing infrastructure for uranium mining. Several uranium extraction projects have been initiated, and there are plans to expand enrichment capacity. The focus is also on producing high-assay low-enriched uranium (HALEU) necessary for advanced nuclear reactors.
**EU Efforts:**
In the EU, efforts to reduce dependence on Russian nuclear services are slower due to political complexities. European countries, including some with Soviet-designed reactors, have started diversifying their nuclear suppliers. The construction of new reactors is moving away from Russian providers towards American and French companies.
European initiatives include the APIS project, aimed at developing alternative fuel for VVER-type reactors to reduce reliance on Russian deliveries. Efforts are being made to diversify uranium import routes and increase internal production. Enrichment services are being expanded, with France’s Orano and Urenco planning capacity increases.
**Transatlantic Cooperation:**
There is potential for transatlantic cooperation in reducing reliance on Russian nuclear services. Policy initiatives like the APIS and Phoenix projects demonstrate cooperation between the US and EU. Corporate collaborations, such as the contract between Framatome and USNC for joint fuel production, show synergies in the nuclear industry.
As Russia deepens nuclear cooperation with China, there is a need for Western powers to work together to maintain a technological edge in the energy industry. The development of Small Modular Reactors (SMRs) is another area where transatlantic synergy could lead to advancements and reduced dependence on Russian technologies.
Overall, Western powers are taking steps to lessen their reliance on the Russian nuclear industry, with a focus on developing their own nuclear capabilities for energy security and to counter Russian influence in the global nuclear market.