UK to supply uranium to Ukraine, ramp up sanctions on Russia: Starmer

In a decisive move to bolster Ukraine energy resilience and further squeeze the Kremlin's war chest, UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer has pledged £210 million in financing to supply Ukraine with enriched uranium for its nuclear power plants. Announced during the ongoing G7 summit, this strategic partnership aims to power Ukraine nuclear facilities for the next two years, directly countering Russia relentless attacks on the nation's energy infrastructure and creating jobs within the UK. This latest agreement, guaranteed by UK Export Finance (UKEF), builds on previous efforts to diversify Ukraine nuclear fuel supply, which historically relied heavily on Russian sources. The move comes as Russia continues to weaponize energy, conducting missile and drone strikes that have crippled Ukrainian power grids, exacerbating the urgent need for Kyiv to secure independent and reliable electricity generation. Simultaneously, the UK is unleashing a new package of sanctions targeting Russia illicit 'shadow fleet' and financial networks, aiming to choke off Moscow's ability to circumvent existing restrictions and fund its war machine. The immediate impact will see UK-headquartered Urenco, a major uranium enrichment company, supplying fuel to Ukraine state nuclear power producer, Energoatom, with a significant portion sourced from the UK. As G7 leaders convene to reinforce support for Ukraine, expect intensified pressure on Moscow's economic lifelines and further coordinated action to isolate Russia energy sector. This dual approach of bolstering Ukraine infrastructure while systematically undermining Russia financial capacity sets a critical precedent for future international responses to energy-fueled geopolitical conflicts.