Beyond oil and gas: Russia's nuclear leverage explained
Deutsche Welle
February 26, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
Russia's nuclear energy sector has managed to sidestep the sanctions imposed on its oil and gas industries following the war in Ukraine. Unlike oil and gas, which have faced significant restrictions, nuclear power continues to operate as a lucrative and strategic export for Russia. According to experts, this is partly due to the relatively smaller scale of the nuclear industry compared to oil and gas, allowing it to fly under the radar of sanctions. Rosatom, Russia's state-owned nuclear corporation, has been expanding its global influence by providing complete nuclear power solutions, from infrastructure to key components like the Nuclear Steam Supply System. This business generates substantial revenue, with Rosatom's 2024 performance report highlighting a 10% year-on-year increase in overseas project revenue to $18 billion.
Russia's strategic focus on nuclear energy extends beyond Europe, particularly into the Global South. Countries like Bangladesh, Egypt, and Kazakhstan are home to ongoing Russian-backed projects, such as the Rooppur plant and the Balkhash facility. Even within NATO and EU member states, like Turkey and Hungary, construction continues at nuclear plants like Akkuyu and Paks II. These projects are part of a long-term strategy to establish a strong foothold in global markets, ensuring Russia's influence persists despite geopolitical tensions.
In Africa, Russia is actively expanding its nuclear footprint through partnerships with countries like Niger, Burkina Faso, and Mali. These agreements often involve uranium mining and the development of nuclear energy infrastructure, positioning Russia as a key player in the region's energy landscape. For instance, Russia announced plans to mine uranium in Niger, signaling its interest in controlling a critical resource for nuclear reactors. This move aligns with efforts to reduce dependence on Western uranium supply chains and build strategic ties in regions like the Sahel.
The significance of Russia's nuclear strategy lies in its ability to maintain economic and geopolitical influence despite sanctions. By focusing on countries reassessing their relationships with former colonial powers, such as France, Russia is carving out a niche in African energy markets. This shift not
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Originally published on Deutsche Welle on 2/26/2026