Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenski reports that the engine failure at the Zaporizhzhia nuclear plant, isolated from the grid after Russian shelling, has persisted for seven days, with diesel generators now providing emergency power.
Emergency Situation Persists Seven Days
President Zelenski stressed that the emergency condition at the Zaporizhzhia Nuclear Power Plant has lasted for seven days. The plant remains offline from the national grid due to ongoing Russian strikes.
Power Supply Disrupted by Shelling
Because of shell strikes, generators powered by diesel now feed the plant. Neither the generators nor the facility itself is designed for this prolonged operation; one generator has already failed according to Ukrainian officials.
Russian Missiles Hinder Line Repairs
Zelenski warned that Russian attacks prevent the repair of power lines leading to the plant, raising the risk of a major accident and calling the situation a danger for all. He declared that no terrorist would dare to do what Russia is doing to the reactor.
IAEA Calls for Cooperation, No Immediate Threat
IAEA head Rafael Grossi affirmed that the agency is working with both sides to restore power. He stated that there is no direct threat as long as the backup generators keep operating.
Russia Controls Zaporizhzhia Since 2022
Since 2022 the plant has been under Russian control. Ukrainian authorities have repeatedly warned that the situation poses a serious risk of failure, and the facility has had to rely on emergency power on several occasions.
