Ukraine nuclear plant: How risky is stand-off over Zaporizhzhia?

The article discusses concerns over the safety of the Zaporizhzhia Nuclear Power Plant in Ukraine, currently Europe's largest nuclear plant, amidst ongoing conflict. Rafael Grossi, head of the International Atomic Energy Agency, warns of a real risk of a nuclear disaster at the plant, which is located near the front line of the Ukraine conflict and has been under Russian control since the war's onset. Both sides have accused each other of shelling the plant.

The plant's robust design, built in the 1980s, is highlighted by experts as being significantly safer than Chernobyl or Fukushima, with strong containment measures. However, concerns persist about potential damage from shelling and the risk of power loss, which could lead to a loss of coolant and overheating of the reactor core. Temporary power outages have already occurred, though backup systems have so far prevented serious incidents.

Experts emphasize that the risk of a major radioactive release is low, partly because only two of the six reactors are operational, and the rest are in cold shutdown, requiring less power for cooling. Nevertheless, there is still a risk associated with the spent fuel stored at the site.

The human factor, including the stress and fatigue of the Ukrainian staff working under Russian occupation, is considered the most significant risk to plant safety. There have been reports of workers facing extreme pressure and risk of kidnapping, with calls from the international community for the demilitarization of the area around the plant. There are also concerns about potential Russian plans to disconnect the plant from Ukraine's grid and connect it to Crimea. The plant's employees have urged the international community to consider the severe risks associated with the plant's current situation.