A recent drone attack targeting Ukraine’s Zaporizhzhia power plant has heightened concerns about the potential for a “major nuclear accident,” according to warnings from the United Nations’ atomic watchdog.
The attack, which occurred on Sunday, has been attributed to escalating tensions between Russia and Ukraine, with both sides trading accusations over the incident.
Russia has pointed fingers at Ukraine, alleging its involvement in the attack that reportedly injured three individuals. However, Ukrainian authorities vehemently deny any responsibility, stating that the plant is under illegal occupation by Russian forces.
The Zaporizhzhia power plant, situated in southern Ukraine and boasting six reactors, has become a focal point in the ongoing conflict between Russia and Ukraine.
Since the full-scale invasion by Russian forces in February 2022, the plant has been under Russian control. Although the facility ceased power generation in 2022, it still requires a continuous power supply to cool one of its reactors, which remains in a state of “hot conservation.”
The International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), which has been monitoring the situation closely, has condemned the drone strike as “reckless” and a “major escalation of nuclear safety and security dangers” at the plant.
Despite confirming physical damage from the attack, including hits on reactor containment structures, the IAEA reassured that nuclear safety had not been compromised. However, it emphasized the seriousness of the incident, warning of potential threats to the reactor’s containment system.
Rafael Grossi, the head of the IAEA, expressed grave concern over the attack, highlighting the inherent risks associated with targeting nuclear facilities. He condemned such actions, stressing that no party could benefit from jeopardizing nuclear safety and security.
Both Russia and Ukraine have a history of accusing each other of endangering the Zaporizhzhia power plant through shelling and attacks. Ukrainian authorities deny any involvement in armed provocations at the site, attributing the attacks to Russian forces.
The recent drone strike follows a pattern of escalating tensions and violence surrounding the power plant. Last month, the IAEA reported a series of daily explosions near the facility, further underscoring the precarious situation.
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