Recent satellite imagery and analysis by Greenpeace indicate that Russia is taking steps to exploit the Zaporizhzhia nuclear power plant it captured during the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. The construction of new power lines aims to integrate the facility with Russia's electricity grid, raising concerns over potential risks associated with operating the plant amidst wartime conditions.
Satellite Imagery Reveals Russia's Nuclear Power Plant Plans in Occupied Ukraine
Satellite Imagery Reveals Russia's Nuclear Power Plant Plans in Occupied Ukraine
A Greenpeace report has uncovered evidence of Russia's intentions to restart the seized Zaporizhzhia nuclear plant through new power line constructions.
Russia has been advancing work on over 50 miles of power lines from Mariupol to Berdyansk, suggesting a strategic effort to connect the Zaporizhzhia plant to a substation in Mariupol. Shaun Burnie, a nuclear expert from Greenpeace Ukraine, highlighted that these developments represent the first physical indication of Russia's plans to restart the plant, despite widespread calls against it due to safety hazards.
While Moscow's future intentions regarding the nuclear plant remain uncertain, experts warn that continued military activity in the vicinity makes any attempts to operate the facility perilous. To fully connect the plant to its grid, further extensive construction would be necessary, a task that will take time amidst the current conflict. These developments underscore the escalating risks in the region, particularly for the safety of residents near the nuclear site, emphasizing the urgent need for diplomatic negotiations to address the plant's status.
While Moscow's future intentions regarding the nuclear plant remain uncertain, experts warn that continued military activity in the vicinity makes any attempts to operate the facility perilous. To fully connect the plant to its grid, further extensive construction would be necessary, a task that will take time amidst the current conflict. These developments underscore the escalating risks in the region, particularly for the safety of residents near the nuclear site, emphasizing the urgent need for diplomatic negotiations to address the plant's status.
