Zelensky Accuses Russia of Setting Zaporizhzhia Nuclear Plant on Fire Amid Ongoing Tensions

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has accused Russia of setting the Zaporizhzhia Nuclear Power Plant on fire, though the extent of the blaze remains unclear. This incident is being viewed as a severe instance of nuclear blackmail by Russia, which has controlled the plant since 2022.

According to Yevgeny Balitsky, head of the Zaporizhzhia region, the cooling systems of the plant ignited following shelling by Ukrainian forces in the area. However, he noted that all six power units of the plant are currently in a “cold shutdown” state, and there is no immediate danger. Radiation levels in the vicinity of the plant and Energodar remain normal.

Ukrainian officials report that Russian soldiers seem to be burning a pile of tires at the plant. In contrast, Russian media attributes the fire to shelling by Ukrainian artillery. Fortunately, there is no significant risk to the nuclear reactors at the plant, and radiation levels in the vicinity remain stable.