Russian Forces Damage Zaporizhzhia NPP Crisis Center Amid Ongoing Attacks

On August 10, a Russian strike on Zaporizhzhia damaged the External Crisis Center of the Zaporizhzhia Nuclear Power Plant (ZNPP), a critical part of the plant's safety system that continuously monitors radiation levels in Ukrainian-controlled areas. Although no employees were injured, the office building was partially destroyed. The occupying authorities at ZNPP have blocked automatic transmission of nuclear and radiation data through the IAEA's IRMIS system, making the center's monitoring role vital. Ukrainian Energy Minister Svitlana Hrynchuk condemned the attack as evidence of Russia's irresponsible policy and disregard for international law, warning that it threatens nuclear safety not only in Ukraine but across Europe. The Ministry of Energy called on international partners to increase sanctions against Russia and urged the complete demilitarization of the Zaporizhzhia NPP and its return to full control by the legitimate operator, Energoatom. Additionally, Russian forces struck a bus station and a medical university clinic in Zaporizhzhia, injuring around 20 civilians.