Rudolph Angler Russian forces seized the Zaporizhzhia nuclear power plant early in their 2022 invasion of Ukraine. Despite controlling Europe’s largest nuclear facility, Russia has not restarted power production. The plant remains inactive amid ongoing conflict, with Ukraine controlling the nearby city and fighting continuing near the site. The International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) confirms that the plant is still shut down, with no immediate plans to generate electricity again.
UN nuclear inspectors regularly visit the plant to monitor safety and offer technical guidance. Their reports show no evidence that Russia is preparing to restart operations soon.
Recently, Greenpeace released satellite images showing Russian construction of a high-voltage power line in occupied regions of Donetsk and Zaporizhzhia. Experts warn this signals an intent to reactivate the plant illegally. Greenpeace’s Shaun Burnie called the move “dangerous and unlawful,” highlighting serious nuclear safety risks. The IAEA stated inspectors have not detected signs of an imminent restart.
Ukraine has filed a formal protest with the IAEA and its member states. Officials condemned the power line construction as a violation of international law and Ukraine’s sovereignty. Kyiv warned any operation of the plant without its consent would be illegal and unsafe. Ukraine stressed the potential threat to national control and nuclear safety standards.
Russia has previously hinted at plans to restart the plant, but the process faces huge technical challenges. IAEA Director Rafael Grossi has pledged to discuss the situation during visits to both Ukraine and Russia. He emphasized that restarting the plant requires a cautious and detailed review due to the complex safety demands.
Although the reactors are shut down, nuclear fuel remains inside all six units. The plant depends on external electricity to cool the reactors and operate safety systems. Power interruptions have been frequent, forcing reliance on diesel generators. The 2023 collapse of the Kakhovka Dam, which supplied the plant’s cooling water, further complicated the situation. Plant staff have dug wells to replace the lost water source, but full operations require a much higher water supply.
An IAEA official confirmed that restarting the plant without restoring the dam’s reservoir involves immense technical risks. No easy solution exists to fully reestablish the cooling system’s original functions.
The issue has even drawn attention from international political figures. In March, former US President Donald Trump reportedly told Ukraine’s President Zelenskyy that the US could take control of Ukraine’s nuclear plants. Trump claimed this would protect the facilities from Russian threats during ceasefire talks.
With ongoing conflict around the plant and deep concerns about nuclear safety, the future of Zaporizhzhia remains uncertain. The situation demands careful international monitoring and strict adherence to legal and safety standards to avoid a potential nuclear disaster.