Another massive shelling by Russia endangered the operation of three Ukrainian nuclear power plants — Khmelnytskyi, Rivne, and South Ukrainian. They were forced to cut electricity production, which caused an additional risk to nuclear safety during the war.
This was stated by IAEA Director General Rafael Grossi, emphasizing the seriousness of the situation.
On November 28, 2024, during a massive shelling, all nine reactors at three nuclear power plants reduced their power levels. In particular:
- Rivne NPP disconnected one of its reactors from the network.
- Khmelnytskyi NPP lost connection with two power transmission lines.
This is the second power cut in less than two weeks. The cause was air strikes and damage to electrical substations through which the stations transmit and receive energy.
Ukrainian nuclear power plants require a stable connection to the power grid for two key functions:
- Distribution of generated electricity.
- Obtaining external energy for cooling reactors.
Damage to critical substations, identified by the IAEA as important for nuclear safety, complicates the operation of nuclear plants.
Rafael Grossi emphasized that such attacks by Russia not only affect Ukraine's energy industry, but also create a global threat, because accidents at nuclear power plants can have catastrophic consequences.
On November 28, Russia launched another massive attack, launching about 200 missiles and drones. The main targets were the objects of the fuel and energy infrastructure. Ukrainian air defense forces shot down 79 missiles and 35 drones, but a large part of the enemies achieved their goals.
Earlier, on November 17, after a similar attack, Ukrainian nuclear power plants had already reduced production. The repetition of such strikes increases the pressure on the country's energy system.
The IAEA calls for strengthening measures to protect nuclear facilities in Ukraine and ensure their safety. The situation demonstrates how important international control and assistance is to prevent large-scale nuclear disasters.
