Russian occupation forces are taking active steps aimed at the illegal restart of the Zaporizhzhia Nuclear Power Plant (ZNPP). According to activists from “Greenpeace Ukraine,” this is confirmed by extensive construction work on new energy infrastructure in the vicinity of the plant.
This is reported by Finway
Construction of Power Networks to Isolate the ZNPP
Analysts from “Greenpeace Ukraine” have examined satellite images and found that the occupiers are erecting new power lines intended to connect the occupied cities of Mariupol and Melitopol. This was first reported on May 27, when relevant images were released. Since then, the pace of construction has significantly increased:
- Starting from May 6, 11 new electricity pylons have been installed in the western part of the occupied village of Azovske in Zaporizhzhia, adding 3.6 km of lines towards the village of Shevchenkove.
- Between May 22 and June 3, another 10 pylons appeared on the eastern section of the line, located 3.3 km south of the village of Kliuchove in the Donetsk region.
Threat to Nuclear Safety and Response from the International Community
According to representatives of “Greenpeace Ukraine,” these actions indicate Russia’s attempt to disconnect the ZNPP from the Ukrainian energy system and connect it to its own. Meanwhile, international institutions, including the IAEA and its director Rafael Grossi, are showing insufficient response to the aggressor’s actions, significantly increasing the risks of a nuclear disaster.
“Greenpeace Ukraine” has no doubt about Russia’s intention to illegally restart the ZNPP, disconnect it from the Ukrainian energy system, and synchronize it with the Russian energy system,” the organization emphasizes.
Recently, the head of “Rosatom,” Alexey Likhachev, stated in a meeting with Rafael Grossi that a multi-level plan for the phased commissioning of the plant has already been prepared and is currently being coordinated with the government, the Ministry of Energy of the Russian Federation, and the network operator.
Senior nuclear campaigner at “Greenpeace Ukraine,” Sean Bernie, emphasizes that restarting the ZNPP is a complex process that requires careful preparation. This is evidenced by the construction of new power lines and the establishment of a water pumping station in the occupied territories. Activists stress that preparations for the restart are already underway, but the IAEA is ignoring these alarming signals.
“Greenpeace Ukraine” warns that the restart of the Zaporizhzhia Nuclear Power Plant by the Russians poses extremely serious risks to nuclear safety, as the equipment at the plant has significantly deteriorated over the years of occupation, and there is a lack of experienced personnel at the site. Consequently, the situation could lead to radioactive contamination and pose a threat to people and the environment.