The Zaporizhzhia nuclear power plant has been disconnected from Ukraine’s power grid, Energoatom, Ukraine’s state nuclear company, announced.
The company points out that the nuclear power plant has been disconnected from the Ukrainian grid for the first time in history due to the actions of the Russian military.
According to Elektroatom, due to artillery attacks on the Zaporizhzhia power plant, which is located right next to the nuclear power plant, the last (fourth) line of communication between the nuclear power plant and the Ukrainian power system was cut off when the fire engulfed the power lines connecting the nuclear power plant to the power grid . The three remaining lines of communication were previously damaged during Russian attacks.
“As a result, the two remaining reactors have been shut down,” the nuclear plant’s operator said, adding that efforts were underway to restore power. Russia has a plan to disconnect the nuclear plant from Ukraine’s grid, risking a potential disaster if the reactor’s cooling system fails.
Europe’s largest nuclear power plant has been the target of frequent attacks in recent weeks. Ukraine accuses Russian forces of the attacks, and Russia of committing “nuclear terror”. Russian forces deny the accusations and point the finger at Ukraine.
At the same time, Russia rejects calls to create a demilitarized zone around the nuclear power plant. The Zaporizhzhia nuclear power plant has been under the control of Russian forces since March 4. Energodari, the place where the power plant is located, is also under occupation.