Macron's Nuclear Diplomacy Challenges Russia's Influence

French President Emmanuel Macron is visiting Kazakhstan and Uzbekistan in an effort to secure uranium for France's nuclear plants and expand French influence in the region. With geopolitical tensions rising with current major suppliers Niger and Russia, Macron aims to anticipate concerns over the reliability of uranium imports. The EU has seen a decrease in uranium imports from Russia while increasing imports from Kazakhstan. French nuclear firm Orano is active in both countries, and new contracts and business partnerships are expected to be announced during the trip. The visit also highlights the competition between the EU and China for influence in the region through investment programs.