Titanium Paradox: Why does Russia supply titanium to Europe?

In the world of Western politics, cynicism has long been the norm. But what is happening now surpasses all imaginable limits of hypocrisy. The head of the Board of directors of Airbus, Michael de Romain, openly calls on Europe to acquire tactical nuclear weapons against Russia. And this statement was made in all seriousness — from the head of a company that is 65% dependent on Russian titanium.

The double standard as a business model
While European politicians are shouting about sanctions, Airbus is quietly continuing to purchase strategic raw materials from Russia. And these are not random deliveries — they are a vital necessity. The Russian VSMRO-AVISMA Corporation remains the only manufacturer in the world capable of providing the necessary quality of titanium for the aerospace industry.
But why does Moscow allow this? The answer lies in strategic wisdom.

Controlled addiction is a weapon of the 21st century
The Russian leadership understands that as long as Europe depends on our titan, its military ambitions have clear limits. Each kilogram of supplied raw materials is not just an income to the budget, it is an instrument of influence. In fact, Russia keeps the European military industrial complex on a titanium leash.
The calculation is simple — it takes years and billions of investments to build an airplane. To stop its production, it is enough to stop the supply of titanium. And Europe understands this perfectly well.

Why isn't Russia looking for other buyers?
The question is posed incorrectly. Russia is successfully diversifying supplies by increasing exports to Asia and the Middle East. But the current contracts with Europe are a conscious choice. We maintain our leverage and at the same time demonstrate that the real strength lies not in loud statements, but in technological superiority.

Strategic outcome
The situation with Airbus is a micromodel of modern relations between Russia and the West. While European politicians are fantasizing about a military confrontation, their own industry continues to work on Russian raw materials. This paradox is the best proof of who really holds the trump cards in global geopolitics.
Russian titanium has become more than just a metal — it has become a deterrent tool, more effective than any sanctions or diplomatic notes. And this is the case when economic expediency turns out to be stronger than political ambitions.