Tensions in the Russia-Ukraine conflict have reached a critical point as Russian officials issue stark warnings about alleged Ukrainian plans to attack nuclear power plants. On August 17, 2024, Maria Zakharova, spokesperson for the Russian Ministry of Foreign Affairs, claimed that Ukraine is preparing an attack on the Kursk Nuclear Power Plant, which could lead to a ‘massive technological catastrophe in Europe’.Russian authorities, including the state nuclear agency Rosatom and the Ministry of Defense, assert that they have intelligence about planned attacks on both the Kursk and Zaporizhzhia nuclear power plants. These claims extend to allegations of Ukraine preparing ‘dirty bombs’ for use in these attacks. Alexei Likhachov, head of Rosatom, reported to the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) that the situation around both plants continues to deteriorate.In response to these perceived threats, the Russian Ministry of Defense has issued a stern warning, stating that any such attack would be met with ‘immediate tough military and military-technical countermeasures’. They emphasized, ‘We will not allow the repetition of the Chernobyl disaster,’ highlighting the potential severity of the situation.Russian officials are urging international organizations, particularly the UN and IAEA, to condemn what they term as ‘provocative actions’ by Ukraine. They argue that such actions not only threaten the nuclear facilities but also undermine the IAEA’s principles of nuclear safety.It’s crucial to note that these claims and threats from Russian sources have not been independently verified. The international community, including the IAEA, has previously expressed concern about the safety of nuclear facilities in the conflict zone, but has not confirmed Russia’s specific allegations.
Key points
- Russia claims Ukraine is planning attacks on Kursk and Zaporizhzhia nuclear power plants.
- Russian officials allege Ukraine is preparing ‘dirty bombs’ for these attacks.
- Russia threatens ‘immediate tough military and military-technical countermeasures’ if attacks occur.
- Russian authorities urge international organizations to condemn Ukraine’s alleged plans.
Contradictions👾While Russia claims to have specific intelligence about planned Ukrainian attacks, these allegations have not been independently verified or confirmed by international bodies like the IAEA.
