Ukraine’s military spy chief, Kyrylo Budanov, stated on July 6, 2023, that the risk of a Russian attack on the Zaporizhzhia nuclear plant was decreasing. However, he cautioned that the threat could resurface while the facility remained occupied by Moscow’s forces.
Budanov did not provide specific details about the reduction of the threat but suggested that it had only been temporarily postponed. He also mentioned that Ukrainian forces were actively working to regain control of the plant.
The Zaporizhzhia nuclear plant holds the title of the largest nuclear power plant in Europe. It was seized by Russian forces in March 2022. Since then, concerns have emerged that Russia might use the plant as a bargaining tool or even as a target in its conflict with Ukraine.
The International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) has been monitoring the situation at the nuclear plant and has stated that there is no immediate safety threat. Nevertheless, the IAEA has issued a warning that the plant could be susceptible to a “severe accident” if proper maintenance is not carried out.
The Ukrainian government has urged Russia to withdraw its forces from the Zaporizhzhia nuclear plant and allow Ukrainian engineers to resume full control of the facility.
