Russia Not Planning to Restart Zaporizhzhia Nuclear Power Plant, TASS Reports

Moscow Update: Zaporizhzhia Nuclear Power Plant Status

Russia is currently not planning to restart the Zaporizhzhia nuclear power plant in Ukraine, according to statements from the head of Rosatom, the state-owned nuclear power company. This facility has been under the control of Russian forces since the beginning of the military operation Russia refers to as a special military operation in Ukraine, and all six of its reactors remain inactive.

Reports indicate that Rafael Grossi, the head of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), recently met with a Rosatom delegation in Kaliningrad, where discussions about the plant’s safety led to a mutual understanding. Rosatom’s chief, Alexei Likhachev, emphasized the significance of safety measures at the plant, reiterating that the topic of restarting operations is not presently being considered.

Environmental organization Greenpeace has referenced documents purportedly submitted by Rosatom to the IAEA in mid-May, suggesting that Russia had intentions to restart the plant, which they warn could lead to "unprecedented escalation."

Both Russia and Ukraine have at times accused one another of shelling the largest nuclear power plant in Europe, although both sides deny the allegations.

The IAEA has noted that the plant has been facing issues with off-site power supply since Russian troops entered Ukraine in February 2022, which has raised security concerns regarding the site.