Summary
Russian President Vladimir Putin claimed that Ukrainian attacks damaged an electric line at the Zaporizhzhia nuclear power plant, leading to a blackout. The plant needs electricity for safety systems, and without it, there is a higher risk associated with managing radioactive materials. Both Ukraine and Russia accuse each other of military actions impacting these critical facilities.
Key Facts
- On October 2, President Putin claimed Ukrainian attacks destroyed a high-voltage electric line at the Zaporizhzhia nuclear plant.
- The Zaporizhzhia plant is Europe's largest nuclear power plant and is located near the front line of the conflict.
- The plant has not generated power since 2022 and relies on diesel generators during blackouts.
- Ukraine and Russia have accused each other of damaging power lines and facilities linked to nuclear plants.
- Both the Zaporizhzhia and Chornobyl plants need constant electricity to maintain their safety systems.
- Safety concerns are heightened due to the need for cooling rods, which remain highly radioactive for years.
- Before the conflict, Ukraine was transitioning from Russian-made nuclear fuel rods to U.S.-made ones.
