Ukraine’s President Volodymyr Zelensky has raised alarms at the United Nations, alerting global leaders to potential escalated attacks by Russia on vital Ukrainian nuclear power plants, which could result in a catastrophic “nuclear disaster.”
Zelensky revealed that recent intelligence indicates Moscow is employing satellites from other nations to spy on Ukraine’s nuclear infrastructure. He warned the UN General Assembly, “Radiation does not respect state borders, and many nations could feel a devastating effect.”
Since the onset of the full-scale invasion in February 2022, Russia has persistently targeted Ukraine’s energy facilities. Zelensky emphasized the grave risks, stating, “Any critical incident in the energy system could lead to a nuclear disaster—a day like that must never come.” He urged the global community to apply pressure on Russia, stressing the importance of safety at nuclear power plants.
The UN’s nuclear watchdog has expressed concerns regarding deteriorating safety conditions at the Zaporizhzhia power plant, which has been under Russian occupation. Recent attacks near the facility’s perimeter have raised alarms, particularly due to their proximity to essential infrastructure.
Zelensky further claimed that Russia has systematically dismantled Ukraine’s thermal power plants and much of its hydroelectric capabilities in an effort to “torment” the Ukrainian people during the harsh winter months. “Energy must stop being used as a weapon,” he declared.
This year, millions of Ukrainians have faced blackouts, particularly after the destruction of a major power plant near Kyiv in April.
In related news, Zelensky is expected to meet with top U.S. officials, including President Joe Biden. However, plans for a meeting with the Republican presidential nominee appear uncertain. Former President Trump has remarked, referring to Zelensky as the “greatest salesman on Earth” while expressing his views on the ongoing conflict.
Zelensky also criticized China and Brazil during his UN address for their calls for negotiations with Russia, questioning their intentions. He reiterated his demand for a complete and equitable peace, insisting that Russian forces must withdraw from Ukraine’s recognized borders to end the ongoing conflict. Ukraine, he affirmed, will not tolerate a return to its “brutal, colonial past.”
