Russia Building Power Lines Near Zaporizhzhia Plant

The International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) reported explosions and smoke near the Russian-occupied Zaporizhzhia Nuclear Power Plant in Ukraine following attacks on an auxiliary facility about 1,200 meters from the plant’s perimeter. Both Russian and Ukrainian sides have blamed each other for the attacks, which highlight the ongoing risks to nuclear safety amid the military conflict. IAEA Director General Rafael Grossi reiterated urgent calls for maximum military restraint near nuclear sites. Russia is reportedly building new power lines in occupied southern Ukraine, possibly to connect the Zaporizhzhia plant to its own energy grid, raising concerns about control and safety. Ukrainian officials and many IAEA member states insist that any restart of the plant’s reactors should only occur once legitimate control is restored to Ukraine. The situation continues to draw international concern over the risk of a catastrophic nuclear incident.