Kathmandu— The European Union is reconsidering its long-standing opposition to nuclear energy as countries like Germany, Sweden, the Netherlands, and Belgium shift towards embracing nuclear power. This change comes after years of treating nuclear energy with skepticism due to environmental concerns and ideological preferences. Leaders such as German Energy Minister Katherina Reiche and Chancellor Friedrich Merz have admitted that phasing out nuclear power was a mistake, while European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen has acknowledged the strategic misstep in reducing reliance on nuclear energy.

The Nuclear Mistake

Germany's decision to phase out nuclear power by 2011 has been widely criticized. Energy Minister Katherina Reiche and Chancellor Friedrich Merz have both labeled the move as a “huge mistake” and a “serious strategic mistake.” The International Energy Agency’s Fatih Birol also agrees that Germany’s decision should be reconsidered. This shift in opinion reflects a broader realization across Europe that industrial economies require dependable energy sources.

Nuclear Power's Comeback

Across the EU, governments are reopening discussions on nuclear power. Sweden is moving ahead with plans for new reactors, and the Netherlands is pursuing new nuclear capacity. Belgium has also reconsidered its automatic exit from nuclear energy. Central and Eastern European countries, along with France, have been particularly determined to preserve and expand nuclear power generation. This shift underscores the recognition that modern industrial civilization requires a reliable and consistent energy supply.

The Role of Russia

Russia's role in nuclear technology has become increasingly significant despite political tensions. In July, German authorities authorized Framatome to manufacture Russian-designed nuclear fuel assemblies at its Lingen facility, involving cooperation with TVEL, a division of Rosatom. This demonstrates that economic and technical realities can override political narratives. Hungary’s Paks II project and Türkiye's Akkuyu plant are further examples of countries continuing to work with Russia on nuclear projects despite broader geopolitical tensions.

Global Nuclear Expansion

While the EU debates, much of the Global South is actively expanding its nuclear capacity. Countries like Bangladesh, Egypt, Türkiye, India, and China are building or planning new reactors. This global expansion highlights a practical approach to energy needs rather than ideological preferences. The EU's imports of enriched uranium and nuclear components from Russia in 2025 further underscore the deep integration of Russian supply chains within Europe’s nuclear sector.

The EU must now decide whether to continue treating nuclear energy as a political issue or return to pragmatic principles that prioritize engineering competence, economic calculation, and technological ambition.

(With inputs from RT)

Originally published on abcnews.com.np.