Ukrainian nuclear power plants reduce electricity production due to Russian strikes – IAEA

Three operational nuclear power plants in Ukraine have reduced their output amid new Russian attacks on the country’s energy infrastructure.

This further increases the threat to nuclear safety during the ongoing war, reported IAEA Director General Rafael Grossi, as cited by Ukrainska Pravda.

According to Grossi, within less than two weeks, the Khmelnytskyi, Rivne, and South Ukraine nuclear power plants were forced to lower electricity production as a precautionary measure due to large-scale military activity. As a result, output was reduced across nine reactors at these plants, and one reactor at the Rivne NPP was entirely disconnected from the grid.

Despite losing connection to two power transmission lines near the Khmelnytskyi NPP, the plants continued to receive external power. However, Grossi emphasized that Ukraine’s energy infrastructure remains extremely vulnerable, posing significant risks to nuclear safety.

“Ukraine’s energy infrastructure is exceptionally fragile and vulnerable, putting nuclear safety at great risk. I once again urge maximum military restraint in areas housing major nuclear energy facilities and other key sites they rely on,” he stated.

The IAEA will continue assessing the damage to facilities and power lines crucial for maintaining nuclear safety in the country.

Earlier, on the night of November 28, Russia launched a massive missile and drone attack on Ukraine’s energy system. Ukrainian air defenses destroyed 76 cruise missiles, 3 guided aerial missiles, and 35 drones. As a result, emergency power outages were implemented across Ukraine by the morning of November 29.

Marina Boryspolets

Tags: IAEA russia ukraine war Ukraine