Strike on Kharkiv Cuts Power to Neutron Source Nuclear Facility: What We Know So Far.

Kharkiv Attack and Its Fallout

According to UATV: A missile strike on Kharkiv during the night of March 12 caused a power outage at the 'Neutron Source' subcritical nuclear facility, located on the grounds of the Kharkiv Institute of Physics and Technology. The attack left the installation without external electricity, raising serious concerns about nuclear safety in the region.

Following the blackout, the 'Neutron Source' facility switched to backup generators to keep operating. This site plays a critical role in the production of medical radioisotopes, the training of specialists, and the execution of scientific research.

IAEA Statement

Andriy Sybiga, a representative of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), stated that

“The IAEA has recognized the direct impact of Russian attacks on Ukraine's energy grid on nuclear safety.”

These events highlight the precarious state of nuclear security in Ukraine, as the ongoing armed conflict continues to damage critical infrastructure. The power loss at the 'Neutron Source' facility emphasizes the urgent need to safeguard nuclear sites, as any failure in their protection could have severe consequences not just for Ukraine, but for the broader region as well.