US Still Reliant on Russian Nuclear Fuel Despite Reduction Efforts
Despite efforts to reduce dependence on Russian nuclear fuel, the US continues to rely on Moscow for reactor fuel. In 2024, Russia supplied 20% of the enriched uranium used in American commercial nuclear reactors. Meanwhile, four EU countries paid Russia more for liquefied natural gas between 2022 and 2025 than they provided in aid to Ukraine.
In October 2025, there were no publicly confirmed reports of US companies receiving waivers to continue importing Russian reactor fuel in 2024. However, discussions are ongoing regarding possible exceptions for certain companies, particularly those involved in new reactor technologies that require high-assay low-enriched uranium (HALEU). Companies like Centrus Energy are working on domestic HALEU production to reduce reliance on Russia. The US Department of Energy is expected to start distributing funds to restore domestic enriched uranium production, aiming to decrease dependence on Russian nuclear fuel in the coming years. Despite a formal ban on imports from Russia, signed by President Joe Biden in May 2024, Moscow remained the leading supplier of nuclear reactor fuel to the US in 2024.
While the US aims to reduce its reliance on Russian nuclear fuel, the process is ongoing, and Russia continues to be a significant supplier. The situation remains dynamic, with the US exploring domestic production and considering waivers for specific companies. The US Department of Energy is expected to play a crucial role in this transition.
