Nuclear Power in Wartime: Zaporizhzhia NPP as a Test Case for Nuclear Safety

Abstract

Russia's war of aggression against Ukraine is the first interstate war in human history in which civilian nuclear facilities have been attacked. The article discusses the situation at Zaporizhzhia Nuclear Power Plant, Europe's largest NPP, which was occupied by Russia in March 2022. The six-unit plant is now a theatre of war and a test case for nuclear safety under wartime conditions. The safety issues analysed in this report are also representative for the operating nuclear reactors in Ukraine which are under Ukrainian control. Numerous abnormal operating situations have occurred at Zaporizhzhia as a result of the war. The staff have to ensure the safety of the plant under the terror of the occupying forces. So far, emergency situations have been managed without severe damage to the nuclear installations. However, there is concern that a major nuclear accident could occur in Zaporizhzhia. The fear of such an accident is also itself an instrument of hybrid warfare.