Russian Strikes on Ukraine’s Energy System Risk Nuclear Disaster: Rights Experts
November 25, 2024
By: [Author’s Name]
Kyiv, Ukraine – Russian strikes on Ukraine’s energy infrastructure have raised concerns among rights experts, who warn that they could lead to a nuclear disaster.
The International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) has expressed grave alarm over the situation, stating that the attacks have damaged several power lines and substations that provide electricity to the Zaporizhzhia Nuclear Power Plant (ZNPP), the largest nuclear facility in Europe.
Rafael Grossi, Director General of the IAEA, said in a statement that the strikes have “undermined the safety of the plant” and “created a serious risk of a nuclear accident.”
“The repeated loss of off-site power at the ZNPP is a serious concern,” Grossi added. “If the plant is unable to receive the electricity it needs to operate safely, there is a risk of a nuclear meltdown.”
The ZNPP has been under Russian control since March 2022. It has been the site of intense fighting in recent months, and there have been several incidents of shelling near the plant.
In addition to the risks posed to the ZNPP, the strikes have also caused widespread power outages throughout Ukraine. Millions of people are without electricity, heat, or water.
The UN High Commissioner for Human Rights, Volker Turk, condemned the attacks, calling them “a violation of international humanitarian law.”
“Attacks on civilian infrastructure, including energy facilities, are prohibited under international law,” Turk said. “Russia must immediately cease these attacks and allow for the safe and reliable operation of the ZNPP.”
The rights experts have called on the international community to take urgent action to prevent a nuclear disaster. They have urged Russia to stop the attacks and to allow access to the ZNPP for IAEA inspectors.
The situation at the ZNPP remains highly volatile. The risks of a nuclear accident are real and must be addressed immediately.
Russian strikes on Ukraine’s energy system risks nuclear disaster: rights experts
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