Russia has accused Ukraine of endangering European nuclear security by allegedly targeting the Russian-controlled Zaporizhzhia nuclear power station with a drone attack. The incident, which occurred on Monday, has raised concerns about the safety of the facility and its surrounding areas.
Allegations and Denials
According to Russian authorities, Ukraine launched a drone attack on the Zaporizhzhia nuclear power plant, with a drone being shot down over one of the reactors. Ukraine, however, has denied any involvement in the series of drone attacks on the plant over the past 48 hours, including the latest incident. The International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) has expressed alarm over the attacks, stating that they pose a threat to nuclear safety.
Dire Consequences
The Russian-installed director of the nuclear power plant, Yuri Chernichuk, described the drone attack as “dangerous for the station, dangerous for the surrounding territory, and potentially dangerous for all of humanity.” He emphasized that nuclear reactors were not designed to be in the midst of combat situations, highlighting the grave risks posed by such attacks.
Escalation of Tensions
Rosatom, the Russian state nuclear corporation, reported that the plant was targeted multiple times on Sunday, with drones attacking various areas of the facility. The Kremlin condemned these attacks as highly dangerous, underscoring the severity of the situation. Ukrainian intelligence officials, however, have refuted the allegations, suggesting that the attacks may have been orchestrated by Russian forces themselves.
IAEA’s Concerns
The IAEA confirmed three drone attacks on Sunday and expressed deep concern over the escalating risks to nuclear safety and security at the Zaporizhzhia Nuclear Power Plant. Director General Rafael Grossi emphasized that attacking a nuclear power plant is unacceptable and must cease immediately to prevent a potential nuclear accident.
Historical Context
The Zaporizhzhia nuclear power plant, equipped with six Soviet-designed reactors, has been a focal point of tensions between Russia and Ukraine since the latter’s full-scale invasion in 2022. Both sides have accused each other of jeopardizing nuclear safety through attacks on the facility, heightening concerns about the potential for a catastrophic nuclear accident.
Call for Ceasefire
As tensions escalate, there are urgent calls for a cessation of hostilities around the nuclear power plant to prevent further endangerment of nuclear safety. The situation underscores the need for international cooperation and concerted efforts to safeguard critical infrastructure and mitigate the risk of a nuclear disaster.
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Credit : Guy Faulconbridge and Angus MacSwan