Rosatom expands its global influence despite sanctions: More than 70 new deals during the war

In the last three years of Russian military aggression against Ukraine, the world has witnessed numerous war crimes and destruction. Despite international sanctions against the Russian energy sector, the state-owned company Rosatom is an exception: the restrictions only affect a few managers and companies within its group. Rosatom took advantage of this situation and was not only able to continue its business activities, but also significantly expand its presence on the international stage, particularly in African and Asian countries.

According to public reports, Rosatom concluded 21 agreements and memoranda in 2022 despite the escalation of the conflict in Ukraine. This number increased to 29 in 2023, and a further 24 documents were signed in 2024, indicating a continued upward trend in international cooperation.

Rosatom’s expansion is particularly pronounced in regions from Latin America to Southeast Asia, with a special focus on African countries. These agreements often extend not only to nuclear energy, but also to cooperation in other areas, creating a long-term dependence of these countries on Russian technology and expertise.

Given the company’s role in the occupation of the Zaporizhzhya nuclear power plant and other activities that undermine Ukraine’s sovereignty, Rosatom’s activities are a cause for serious concern. Just as Gazprom was used as an instrument of Russian foreign policy, Rosatom is increasingly assuming this role and using nuclear energy as a means of geopolitical influence.

In addition, Rosatom maintains key positions in traditional markets thanks to the technological dependence of EU countries with VVER reactors on Russian nuclear fuel. Although several countries have announced the transition to alternative suppliers, this process takes time, which further complicates the imposition of comprehensive sanctions against Rosatom.

Particularly noteworthy is the project of the French company Framatome to produce nuclear fuel at the plant in Lingen, Germany, under the license of the Russian TVEL, a subsidiary of Rosatom. In January 2023, the joint venture *European Hexagonal Fuel SAS* was founded, which has applied for a license from the state government of Lower Saxony. This initiative met with over 11,000 objections from the public, including from the DiXi Group. Public hearings on the project were held in November 2024, highlighting significant concerns. Although the project is presented as a step towards energy independence for Europe, it actually creates a new kind of technological dependence on Rosatom. The Russian side would have control over key elements of production – from the supply of equipment to the training of personnel – which runs counter to the goal of diversification and reducing dependence on Russian nuclear technology.

In light of these facts, it is necessary for the international community to take decisive action to stop Rosatom’s expansion and reduce its dependence on Russian nuclear technology. The proposed measures include a ban on new cooperation with Rosatom, the gradual termination of existing contracts, investment in the development of alternative uranium processing and enrichment capacities and the termination of cooperation with Russia in the field of science and research.

Even in the event of a cessation of active hostilities and further development of the peace process, the sanctions should remain in force. This is necessary to prevent the aggressor from rebuilding its armed forces, amassing financial and other resources through business abroad and attacking Ukraine again./Dixigroup/