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Boeing and Rolls-Royce are reportedly lobbying against further sanctions on Russia, according to an analysis of U.S. House of Representatives lobbying disclosure website data by Novaya Gazeta Europe.
Millions Spent on Lobbying Efforts
In the first quarter of 2025, Boeing spent $2.6 million on lobbying services. Rolls-Royce, a major aircraft engine manufacturer, spent $250,000. The precise amount dedicated to Russia-related lobbying is not specified.
Titanium Supply Chain Concerns
Both companies depend heavily on Russian titanium. Before February 2022, Boeing sourced about a third of its titanium from Russia. Rolls-Royce obtained approximately 20% of its titanium from Russian sources.
Following the invasion of Ukraine, Boeing publicly ceased direct purchases from VSMPO-AVISMA, a Russian producer. However, reports indicate the company has continued to source titanium through intermediary suppliers. Rolls-Royce also claimed to halt Russian titanium purchases but allegedly maintained these imports.
Potential Sanctions on Russian Metal Exports
The Biden administration has reportedly considered a joint sanctions package with G7 countries to target Russian metal exports, including titanium. In September 2023, the U.S. Department of Commerce placed VSMPO-AVISMA under export restrictions, requiring American companies to obtain special licenses for trade.
Nuclear Energy Sector Also Involved
Several nuclear energy firms, like Uranium Energy Corporation and Terrapower, have also engaged lobbyists, seeking a relaxation of the ban on Russian uranium imports imposed in November. Russia was a primary uranium supplier for U.S. nuclear plants, providing about 20% of enriched uranium.
VSMPO-AVISMA’s Global Influence
VSMPO-AVISMA, based in the Urals, is the world’s largest titanium producer, accounting for around 30% of global production. Its customers include Airbus, Embraer, and Safran, in addition to Boeing and Rolls-Royce.
In February, VSMPO-AVISMA shares saw a 30% increase amid rumors of Boeing’s potential return to the Russian market, Kommersant reported. Rostec, a Russian state-owned defense conglomerate, holds a 25% stake in the company.
Oligarch Ties
Mikhail Shelkov, the controlling shareholder of VSMPO-AVISMA, is a pro-Kremlin oligarch included on the Anti-Corruption Foundation’s List of War Enablers. He has not been sanctioned by the U.S. or the EU.