Ukraine denies attacking Zaporizhzhia nuclear plant with drone: Live

 

Ukraine Denies Attacking Zaporizhzhia Nuclear Plant With Drone

Ukraine has rejected Russian accusations that its forces carried out a drone strike on the Russian-controlled Zaporizhzhia Nuclear Power Plant, Europe's largest nuclear facility, calling the claim "another propaganda ploy" and insisting Ukrainian forces did not target the site. 

What Russia Claims

Russia's state nuclear company, Rosatom, said a Ukrainian drone struck the turbine hall of Unit 6 at the plant, causing an explosion and leaving a hole in the building's wall. Russian officials described the incident as a deliberate attack but said no critical nuclear equipment was damaged and there was no radiation leak. 

Ukraine's Response

Ukraine's military strongly denied responsibility, stating that Ukrainian forces did not attack the facility and operate in accordance with international humanitarian law. Ukrainian officials accused Moscow of using the incident for information warfare and nuclear blackmail. 

According to Ukraine's Southern Defense Forces, there was no military activity near the plant at the time Russia alleges the strike occurred. 

IAEA Raises Concerns

The International Atomic Energy Agency confirmed it was informed about a drone impact at the site and expressed serious concern over any military activity around nuclear facilities. The agency has requested access to inspect the reported damage firsthand. 

IAEA Director General Rafael Grossi warned that attacks involving nuclear sites are extremely dangerous and could increase the risk of a nuclear accident.

Why the Plant Matters

The Zaporizhzhia plant has been under Russian control since March 2022 and has repeatedly been at the center of mutual accusations between Moscow and Kyiv. The facility remains one of the most sensitive locations in the war because any major damage could have consequences far beyond the battlefield. 

Current Status

At present:

• Russia says a Ukrainian drone caused minor structural damage.

• Ukraine denies carrying out any strike.

• No radiation leak has been reported.

• The IAEA is seeking direct access to inspect the affected area.

• Independent verification of responsibility has not yet been established. 

The incident has renewed international concerns about the safety of nuclear facilities located near active combat zones and highlights the continuing risks posed by the ongoing war.