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Russia Targets the Power Grid
Russia launched another wave of missile and drone attacks across Ukraine, hitting key substations and power lines. The strikes cut electricity in several regions and forced emergency shutdowns.
Ukrainian officials reported that some explosions occurred near nuclear power plants. The International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) immediately began monitoring the area, especially around the Zaporizhzhia facility — the largest nuclear site in Europe.
Kyiv Issues a Strong Nuclear Warning
Ukrainian leaders warned that continued strikes could trigger a “continental-scale disaster.” Although no radiation leaks appeared, experts fear the next attack might damage cooling systems or backup circuits.
President Volodymyr Zelensky said Russia wants to “terrorize civilians and destroy Ukraine’s energy foundation before winter.”
He also urged allies to strengthen air defenses and provide rapid repairs to critical sites.
International Community Responds
Meanwhile, the European Union condemned the strikes as “reckless and unacceptable.” The United States also urged Moscow to stop its assault on Ukraine’s energy infrastructure.
In reaction, the IAEA sent more inspectors to assess the safety of nuclear facilities. Director-General Rafael Grossi stressed that stable power supply is “essential for avoiding a nuclear emergency.”
Therefore, he called for immediate protection of all energy corridors.
Winter Energy Crisis Intensifies
Energy experts believe Ukraine’s grid now operates at the edge of collapse. Repeated hits force technicians to rely on temporary diesel systems that can fail during prolonged outages.
Blackouts have already affected cities such as Kharkiv, Dnipro, and Zaporizhzhia. As a result, millions of residents risk losing heating and light during the coming winter.
However, Kyiv continues to repair damaged systems daily and vows to keep power stable despite the attacks.
Global Risks Beyond Ukraine
Analysts warn that a nuclear accident in Ukraine could spread radiation far beyond its borders. Contaminated air and water could reach parts of Eastern Europe and the Black Sea within days.
Consequently, international organizations are urging de-escalation and stronger safety measures.
This crisis shows how modern warfare threatens not only armies but the entire planet’s environment and health.
Ukraine’s nuclear plants, once symbols of progress, now remind the world how fragile peace and safety truly are.
