Russian military personnel sustained injuries in a significant incident at Europe’s largest nuclear power facility. The International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) disclosed being notified of the event that occurred while clearing landmines after a localized ceasefire between Russia and Ukraine.
The ceasefire aims to facilitate repairs to power lines crucial for averting a potential nuclear disaster at the plant, which has faced power outages due to conflict in the area. The Zaporizhzhia Nuclear Power Plant, Europe’s largest and one of the world’s top 10 facilities, has been under Russian control since Moscow’s invasion of Ukraine in February 2022.
IAEA Director General Rafael Mariano Grossi emphasized the need for military restraint and adherence to the ceasefire to safeguard against nuclear incidents. The exact circumstances leading to the recent injuries remain unclear.
The IAEA highlighted the urgency of fixing the plant’s main 750 kilovolt power line following another power loss event, the 18th since the conflict began. The plant had to resort to emergency diesel generators after its last functioning power line, the 330 kV Ferosplavna, was disrupted due to reported attacks on nearby electrical substations.
With the main 750 kV line out of service for over two months, relying solely on the 330 kV line has left the plant vulnerable to disruptions caused by conflict. The 330 kV line has been frequently disconnected in recent weeks, posing further risks.
Restoring the 750 kV Dniprovska line is deemed crucial for enhancing nuclear safety at the plant, which has been a key concern for the IAEA due to its proximity to the front line in Ukraine’s Zaporizhzhia region.