Russian military forces have positioned their equipment directly next to the nuclear reactors at the Zaporizhzhia Nuclear Power Plant. This information was provided by the spokesperson for the Southern Defense Forces, Vladyslav Voloshyn.
This is reported by Finway
Military Equipment Near Nuclear Reactors: Threat and Violation of International Law
Vladyslav Voloshyn released a drone reconnaissance video clearly showing the presence of Russian military equipment near the power units of the plant. According to the spokesperson, this constitutes a direct violation of the norms of International Humanitarian Law, which prohibits the use of nuclear energy facilities for military purposes.
“Russian troops are hiding their equipment on the territory of the plant, as they understand that Ukraine will not strike at the nuclear power plant.”
Voloshyn emphasized that the occupiers not only store equipment at the plant but also use the Zaporizhzhia Nuclear Power Plant as a training ground for preparing their drone operators. He stated that there have been recorded instances of shelling of Ukrainian territories from multiple launch rocket systems (MLRS) that were carried out specifically from the territory of the nuclear power plant.
Consequences of Shelling and Damage to Infrastructure
The Ministry of Energy of Ukraine reported that on January 3, due to combat actions, the temporarily occupied Zaporizhzhia Nuclear Power Plant lost power from one of its high-voltage lines. During the full-scale war, Russian shelling has repeatedly led to damage to power lines, causing 12 blackouts at the plant already. These actions pose serious risks to the energy security and nuclear safety of the region.