Key facts
- Russian-installed management at Zaporizhzhia nuclear plant accused Ukraine of drone attacks.
- Over 20 drones allegedly targeted a nearby thermal plant.
- The thermal plant is crucial for the nuclear facility's external power supply.
- Management stated the attacks pose a direct threat to the nuclear plant's power supply reliability.
- The IAEA was informed and its monitors saw light smoke near the thermal plant.
The Russian-installed administration at Ukraine's Zaporizhzhia nuclear power plant accused Ukraine of launching drone attacks on Thursday. According to the management, more than 20 drones were deployed to target a nearby thermal power plant, which is vital for providing the nuclear facility with its external power source. The management stated that such attacks pose a direct threat to the reliability of the nuclear power plant's electricity supply and demonstrate disregard for nuclear safety principles. Ukraine has not commented on the allegations. The Zaporizhzhia plant, Europe's largest with six reactors, generates no electricity but requires external power to prevent nuclear fuel from overheating. One of its two external power lines has been down since late March, and the IAEA has been attempting to arrange a ceasefire for repairs. The IAEA confirmed it was informed of the incident by the plant's Russian management and its monitors observed light smoke near the thermal plant. IAEA Director General Rafael Grossi urged an immediate halt to attacks to prevent a prolonged loss of external power.