The Ukrainian military is unlikely to succeed in seizing the Kursk Nuclear Power Plant (NPP), as it could have much more negative consequences for Ukraine than for Russia. This opinion was expressed by energy experts in a comment to NV publication.
Doctor of Physical and Mathematical Sciences Ludvig Lytvynskyi, a former employee of the Institute of Nuclear Research of the National Academy of Sciences, noted that the seizure of the nuclear plant is not in the interests of Ukraine.
"Whoever seizes a nuclear power plant bears full responsibility for nuclear safety. And why do we need that suitcase without a handle?” said Lytvynskyi, emphasizing the complexity and danger of managing nuclear facilities.
Volodymyr Omelchenko, director of energy programs at the Razumkov Center, considers the discussion of a possible exchange of the Kursk NPP for the Zaporizhzhia station to be speculation. In his opinion, the Russians are unlikely to agree to the exchange, and the seizure of the station can be used for a powerful information campaign against Ukraine.
Omelchenko noted that even the theoretical seizure of control over the Kursk NPP would have much worse consequences for Ukraine. "The IAEA can point out that Ukraine has violated safety rules, creating a dangerous precedent and an emergency situation," he explained.
Under the scenario in which Ukraine captures the Kursk NPP, the country may lose some of its international allies. Ivan Stupak, a military expert and former SBU employee, warned of possible consequences: "The IAEA will condemn such actions. We expect indignation from the UN and the risk of losing part of our allies, which may lead to a halt in the supply of weapons."
Stupak also noted that Ukraine could be called a "nuclear terrorist country", which would reduce international support and complicate the situation at the front.
