Russia Accused of Using Zaporizhzhia Nuclear Power Plant to Launch Attacks on Ukraine

The Zaporizhzhia Nuclear Power Plant (ZNPP) has been under Russian control for over two years, during which time the occupiers have reportedly used it as a base for military operations. According to Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, Russian forces are utilizing the plant’s territory to launch attacks on the city of Nikopol and to store military equipment and munitions.

Zelenskyy emphasized that the Russian presence at the plant poses a significant threat to radiation safety not only for Ukraine but also for Europe and the world. He stressed that only a return of the ZNPP under Ukrainian control would ensure adherence to safety norms and stabilize the situation around the plant.

In a recent statement on August 11, President Zelenskyy reported a fire on the ZNPP premises, allegedly caused by Russian occupiers. This incident drew attention from the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) and the international community. However, according to Nikopol District Military Administration head Yevhen Yevtushenko, radiation levels around the plant remain normal, and the fire was likely due to the burning of automobile tires.

Russian forces have countered by accusing Ukraine of shelling the city of Enerhodar and claimed that radiation levels around the ZNPP are also normal.

On August 18, IAEA representatives reported a drone strike on the occupied ZNPP territory, which occurred outside the plant’s security zone. Preliminary information suggests that the drone exploded near the cooling ponds, causing damage near the power lines that supply electricity to the ZNPP. The IAEA team investigating the incident found evidence of destruction likely caused by the drone explosion.