Core Viewpoint - The U.S. plans to expand its strategic uranium reserves in response to anticipated rapid growth in nuclear energy, while moving away from reliance on Russian enriched uranium [1][3]. Group 1: U.S. Nuclear Energy Strategy - The U.S. aims to eliminate dependence on Russian nuclear fuel as a core part of its energy strategy, with legislation signed by former President Biden requiring utilities to stop using Russian uranium by 2028 [3]. - Currently, Russia supplies about 25% of the enriched uranium for 94 U.S. nuclear reactors, which generate one-fifth of the country's electricity [1]. Group 2: Domestic Uranium Supply and Infrastructure - The U.S. has limited uranium enrichment capabilities, with only two major facilities: one in New Mexico serving traditional reactors and another in Ohio producing higher-enriched fuel for advanced reactors [4]. - The Biden administration is accelerating the deployment of advanced nuclear technologies, with the first models of small modular reactors expected to enter testing next year [4][5]. Group 3: Strategic Reserve Levels - The current strategic uranium reserve levels in the U.S. are significantly lower than those of other major nuclear power countries, with U.S. companies holding an average of only 14 months of uranium inventory compared to 2.5 years in the EU and 12 years in China [6]. - The strategic uranium reserve plan was initially proposed in 2020 with a request for $150 million, but only half was approved by Congress. The urgency of expanding reserves has increased with recent developments [6]. Group 4: Private Sector Investment and International Cooperation - The U.S. government is encouraging private sector investment and international collaboration to expedite the rebuilding of the uranium supply chain, citing examples like General Matter's involvement [7]. - Centrus Energy recently signed a memorandum of understanding with South Korea's KHNP and POSCO to explore potential investments in its Ohio enrichment facility, highlighting the deepening U.S.-Korea partnership in civilian nuclear energy [7].