Russia Eyes Uranium Assets in Niger Amid Strengthening Ties with Military-Led Authorities
Reports indicate that Russia is exploring the acquisition of uranium assets in Niger currently held by the French state-controlled company Orano SA, according to sources familiar with the matter.
Rosatom, Russia’s state nuclear company, has engaged in discussions with Niger’s military-led authorities regarding the potential acquisition of assets owned by Orano SA, as revealed by a source in Moscow who requested anonymity, as reported by Bloomberg.
A western diplomat based in the region suggested that the discussions likely involve mining permits. Niger accounted for approximately 4% of global uranium mine production in 2022, according to the World Nuclear Association.
Historically, France has relied on Niger for up to 15% of its uranium requirements to fuel nuclear reactors, contributing to 65% of the country’s electricity production, as stated by Orano.
Additionally, European Union utilities relied on Niger, the world’s seventh-largest producer, for approximately a quarter of their uranium supplies in 2022, according to the Euratom Supply Agency.
Since a coup last July ousted Niger’s Western-allied leader, the country has joined some other African nations, most of them under military rule, in strengthening security ties with Russia.
For example, in March, Russian President Vladimir Putin and Mali’s junta leader Assimi Goita held discussions regarding security and economic cooperation.
This trend has provided Moscow with an opportunity to pursue access to mining interests as part of its efforts to revive its Soviet-era presence in Africa.
Particularly, Russia aims to exploit widespread resentment of France’s longstanding influence in its former colonies. However, the extent of the assets Rosatom is seeking in Niger remains unclear, and the discussions are described as being in the early stages, not yet reaching the negotiation phase.
Orano stated in emailed responses to inquiries that it is unaware of any discussions between Niger and Russian entities. The company emphasized that it has maintained communication with Niger’s new leadership since July.
