Ukraine's Key Nuclear Plants Shut Down Amid Russian Takeover, Raising Global Concerns
The Zaporizhzhia nuclear plant, a key source of Ukraine's electricity, has been shut down following Russia's takeover. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has described the situation as 'critical'. Meanwhile, the Chernobyl nuclear plant has experienced a power outage due to Russian shelling, raising global concerns.
The Zaporizhzhia plant, housing six reactors, was forced to shut down after Russia seized control. It previously produced around a fifth of Ukraine's electricity. The Moscow-installed operator at the plant claims the situation is 'under control', despite trading blame with Ukraine for the blackout.
The Chernobyl nuclear plant, site of the world's worst nuclear disaster in 1986, also faced a power outage on Wednesday. Ukrainian President Zelensky accused Russia of shelling a nearby substation, causing the blackout. Two emergency diesel generators are now providing power to the confinement structure housing the damaged reactor core.
The Zaporizhzhia plant has faced multiple safety threats since the start of the war, including frequent shelling, power cuts, and staff shortages. The plant has been disconnected from the power grid since last Tuesday. The situation at the plant is so dire that President Zelensky has warned of a potential threat to global security.
The shutdown of the Zaporizhzhia nuclear plant and the power outage at Chernobyl have raised serious concerns. With both Russia and Ukraine blaming each other, the international community is urged to intervene and ensure the safety of these critical facilities.
Read also:
- Increase in Electric Vehicle Charging Stations Across U.S., But Is It Sufficient?
- Tesla's Semi-Truck enters partnership with Uber Freight, aiming to accelerate the usage of electric trucks.
- The current status of green hydrogen for developing countries following the wave of hype: Assessment of remains
- Rapid Growth in Bio-based Polypropylene Sector Anticipated at a Compound Annual Growth Rate of 26.5% by 2034
