Militarization of the ZNPP: Occupiers are digging trenches around the cooling pond.

Russian military are building trenches around the cooling pond of the Zaporizhzhia NPP, according to research by British analysts from McKenzie, commissioned by Greenpeace Germany.

According to analysts, from the occupation of the ZNPP by Russia in 2022 to June 2024, over 1,000 meters of trenches were built in the area of the cooling pond, most of which are located on the north and west sides of the pond. Greenpeace claims that Rosatom's plans to restart the reactors increase the risks of a nuclear accident.

"A new detailed satellite analysis shows that a significant area of the nuclear power plant is becoming even more militarized. There are not only trenches but also fortifications that can be used for the installation of military equipment. Russian armed forces continue to threaten the safety of the ZNPP. This is a matter of serious concern," said Jan Vande Putte, senior nuclear specialist at Greenpeace Central and Eastern Europe.

Greenpeace also expressed concern that the militarization of the cooling pond area might be related to Russia's future plans to restart the reactors, which have been shut down since 2022. Analysts believe that the construction of trenches and fortifications could be an indication of plans for the pump station and reactor restarts.

"Russia's crimes at the ZNPP continue to escalate. It is now known about the militarization of important sections of the nuclear plant that provide cooling water for the reactors. Every effort must be made to stop Russia's plans and to punish Rosatom and the Russian state with effective sanctions," said Shaun Burnie, senior nuclear specialist at Greenpeace Central and Eastern Europe.

Source: Radio Svoboda