EU Plans Gradual Phaseout of Russian Nuclear Fuel Amid Internal Opposition

The European Union is intensifying efforts to eliminate its dependence on Russian energy, with a focus on banning Russian gas imports by 2027 while postponing measures to curb reliance on Russian nuclear fuel due to complex supply and security challenges. In 2024, the EU paid approximately €700 million for Russian nuclear fuel, which remains a significant 'weak link' as around 20-25% of the uranium supply and nuclear services rely on Russia. The European Commission acknowledges that fully replacing Russian nuclear fuel will require decades and an investment of at least €241 billion to develop an internal supply chain, with countries like Hungary and Slovakia resisting rapid changes. EU Energy Commissioner Dan Jørgensen emphasized that while gas import bans are imminent, proposals to limit Russian nuclear fuel imports will come later, as ensuring energy security for member states is critical. The EU is exploring alternative uranium suppliers such as Kazakhstan, Canada, and Niger, though concerns about supply safety persist. Overall, the EU aims to end the indirect financing of Russia's war through energy imports while maintaining affordable and secure energy supplies for its members.