Russia’s Attacks on Ukrainian Energy Infrastructure Raise Nuclear Safety Concerns
KYIV, Ukraine – Recent Russian strikes targeting Ukraine’s energy infrastructure, including areas near nuclear power plants, are escalating concerns about nuclear safety and security, international officials warn. The attacks, which Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy stated involved “hundreds of drones and dozens of missiles,” threaten to destabilize the power grid and possibly compromise the safety systems at nuclear facilities.
The escalating attacks come amid a pattern of incidents reported by the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA). In September, the IAEA documented instances of drones and gunfire near Ukraine’s nuclear power plants. These incidents, coupled with ongoing accusations from both Ukraine and Russia regarding attacks on or near the Zaporizhzhia nuclear complex, highlight a precarious situation as winter approaches and energy demands increase. The IAEA reported last month that attacks on Ukraine’s power grid pose a “continuing threat” to the nuclear safety and security of all nuclear facilities in the country.
Last month, a temporary truce facilitated repairs to damaged electricity cables at the Zaporizhzhia plant. Though, Energy Minister Hrynchuk cautioned that power outages are likely to continue despite the recent stabilization of the power network. The attacks have already left thousands without power and water.
Zelenskyy has appealed to international allies for sanctions targeting Moscow for attacks on energy infrastructure, specifically those aimed at civilians before the onset of winter. Meanwhile, Russian Governor gladkov of the Belgorod region reported approximately 20,000 residents are currently without power following a Ukrainian attack, though no casualties were reported. The IAEA visited a damaged nuclear power station late last month to assess the situation, underscoring the urgency of the issue.
