Zelenskyy: Zaporizhzhia Nuclear Plant Must Be in Ukraine’s and Europe’s Security Framework

Zaporizhzhia Nuclear Power Plant (ZNPP) should be a part of security guarantees for Ukraine and Europe, President Volodymyr Zelenskyy stated during an online press conference with Ukrainian journalists from Abu Dhabi on February 17.

According to Zelenskyy, nuclear energy plays a crucial role in ensuring stability. “If you ask our partners, they all acknowledge that without nuclear power, Ukraine could have lost every winter,” he said.

The President emphasized the significance of the Zaporizhzhia Nuclear Power Plant in the broader security context. “If we return to security guarantees… what about Zaporizhzhia NPP? Is it a security guarantee for us and for Europe? It is a security guarantee! This is a crucial condition.

The plant is currently not operational, and it will not function without us – it is simply impossible! We will generate electricity, supply our consumers, and export to Europe, providing security for all,” Zelenskyy stated.

Discussing European policy, Zelenskyy noted that Europe must evolve in various sectors, including defense, artificial intelligence, agriculture, and energy.

“Europe already understands that it needs to change and develop in weaponry, defense, artificial intelligence, the agricultural sector, and energy… It is necessary to look at this comprehensively: green energy is essential, but it will not be sufficient. For instance, the gas sector should be developed. Nuclear power is also crucial, and France has significant expertise in this area.”

Zelenskyy underscored the necessity for Europe to strengthen its position, particularly as the United States prioritizes domestic policies.

“Europe must be stronger. The U.S. is increasingly focused on internal matters. Yes, 'America number one' is the current U.S. policy – their right and choice. It is understandable, as they are a self-sufficient country. However, it is dangerous for everyone if the U.S. distances itself from the close alliance it currently has with Europe. If they withdraw – in terms of weaponry, economy, and energy – it will create risks that Russia can and will exploit. This is not favorable, but it is the decision of the United States,” Zelenskyy stated.

The situation at Zaporizhzhia NPP remains a critical issue. The plant, which has been under Russian control since March 2022, has faced operational disruptions and safety concerns.

International organizations, including the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), continue to monitor the situation, emphasizing the necessity of restoring Ukrainian oversight to ensure security and stability in the region.

Earlier, on January 15, the U.S. Department of the Treasury imposed new sanctions on Russian entities, including those linked to the occupied Zaporizhzhia Nuclear Power Plant. The measures targeted defense companies, financial institutions, and individuals involved in Russia’s military-industrial network, aiming to disrupt its wartime capabilities.

Among those sanctioned were entities facilitating cross-border payments for sensitive goods, as well as individuals managing the occupied nuclear plant. The sanctions also extended to Chinese companies aiding Russia in evading restrictions.