UN Humanitarian Convoy Hit in Kherson Region, Raising Concerns of Escalation
Kherson, Ukraine – A United Nations humanitarian convoy was struck in the Kherson region today, prompting international condemnation and raising fears of further escalation in the ongoing conflict between Ukraine and Russia. Details remain scarce, but initial reports confirm the incident occurred while the convoy was delivering aid to civilians.
The largest nuclear power plant in Europe, currently occupied by Russia, has been repeatedly targeted by attacks or sabotages as the beginning of the military invasion in February 2022, with both sides accusing the other of responsibility.
According to the European diplomat, the CEO of the International Atomic Energy agency (IAEA) Rafael Grossi proposes to restore the supply of external energy to the Zaporizhzhia power plant in two phases. The Russian diplomat confirmed some aspects of the plan.
In the first phase of Grossi’s plan, a ceasefire zone should be established within a circle of approximately 1.5 kilometers to allow the repair of the main power line, which has been damaged in the area under Russian control. The second phase anticipates the establishment of another such zone to repair backup lines located in territory controlled by Ukraine.
Repairs were initially scheduled between October 11 and 17, but have not yet begun. The Ukrainian side reportedly provided guarantees for the safe passage of repair crews, while russia has yet to provide similar assurances. The Russian diplomat stated that preparations for repairs are ongoing and work could commence soon.
The IAEA reported earlier in October that the Zaporizhzhia plant is not currently in immediate danger, relying on backup diesel generators for cooling. Eight generators are operational, one is on standby, and three are undergoing maintenance.
the current disruption in power supply to the plant is the longest since the start of the war. The 330-kilovolt backup line was disconnected in May, and the main 750-kilovolt circuit has been interrupted since September 23. (TASR)
