Russia takes control of Ukraine’s nuclear plant after shelling

Europe’s largest nuclear plant in Ukraine is under the control of Russia. A fire started at Zaporizhzhia before Russian troops shelled the nuclear plant.UN’s nuclear watchdog stated that there are no threats of radiation.

World leaders accused Russia of spreading “nuclear terror” after the nuclear plant attack.US President Joe Biden urged Moscow to stop military activities. On the other hand, Canada’s Prime Minister stated that the “horrific attacks” from Russia “must cease immediately”.

UK Prime Minister mentioned that the “reckless” attack could “directly threaten the safety of all of Europe”.Zelensky compared the possible destruction to be equal to the destruction of six Chernobyls. This was the site of the world’s worst nuclear disaster in 1986.

He further added that the explosion would lead to the end of Europe. Russia’s defense ministry blames Ukrainian saboteurs. He believes that it is a “monstrous provocation” without providing evidence.

A video from the nuclear plant reveals a blast lighting up the night sky giving out plumes of smoke. The building adjacent to the plant site was set on fire hit by a projectile. However, this was not part of reactors according to Rafael Grossi, Head of the International Atomic Energy Agency. He described the situation at 

Zaporizhzhia as “normal abnormality”. He added that it didn’t affect the safety systems of plants. Hence, there was no release of radioactive material. The IAEA mentioned it was in “full 24/7 response mode” due to the “serious situation” at the power station.

Kirill Dovzhik, a resident told BBC that he saw the Russian military attacking the site and It was just terrorism. Ukrainian emergency services got blocked from getting to the scene of the blaze. However, this prompted President Biden to publicly call on Russia to allow firefighters into the site.

Boris Johnson mentioned that he will seek an emergency meeting of the UN Security Council. Nuclear experts also described the events at Zaporizhzhia nuclear power plant as a very risky situation.

Credits: BBC