Russia Backs China Nuclear Capacity Expansion Against US

China is strategically working to surpass the United States in nuclear energy capacity, with plans to expand its installed nuclear reactor capacity beyond 100 gigawatts, overtaking the US's current 97 gigawatts. Russia has pledged full support to China in this effort, providing technology and expertise, having already helped build four reactors and currently assisting with four more, according to Alexey Likhachev, head of Russia's state nuclear agency Rosatom. This cooperation includes the development of a new generation of closed-cycle nuclear reactors based on Russian technology and materials, reflecting deeper strategic ties between Moscow and Beijing. Meanwhile, China is also securing its uranium supply, especially from Kazakhstan, the largest global uranium producer, to fuel its nuclear ambitions and reduce coal dependence. This nuclear energy race is part of a broader geopolitical competition, with China patiently building influence through infrastructure, renewable energy projects, and long-term resource contracts, aiming to challenge US dominance in critical global sectors. The push is aligned with China's larger vision under President Xi Jinping to become a leading global superpower by 2049, combining economic, political, and military strength.