Moscow Churns Out False Claims About Ukrainian Strike on Zaporizhzhia Nuclear Plant: Disinformation Center Reveals Kremlin’s Real Goal.

Disinformation Campaign Targets Zaporizhzhia Nuclear Plant

According to UATV: Andriy Kovalenko, head of the Center for Countering Disinformation under Ukraine’s National Security and Defense Council, has sounded the alarm over a fresh wave of Russian propaganda alleging attacks by the Ukrainian Armed Forces on the Zaporizhzhia Nuclear Power Plant (ZNPP). He stressed that these reports are deliberate information provocations orchestrated by the Russian Federation. Kovalenko pointed out that Moscow benefits from fabricating stories about potential strikes on facilities that remain under Ukraine’s control, as it helps shift blame and create confusion.

On May 31, 2023, Kovalenko emphasized that such accusations are entirely baseless. He stated:

'The Russians keep cranking out fake news about an attack on the ZNPP. Let me repeat once more, from the very start — this is outright nonsense, because Ukraine has no reason to attack its own nuclear power plant.'

The Situation Around the Zaporizhzhia Nuclear Plant

The Zaporizhzhia Nuclear Power Plant has been under Russian occupation since 2022, a fact that further complicates the landscape of information manipulation. Kovalenko also outlined the likely purpose behind Moscow’s actions:

'Russia’s goal in churning out these fakes may be quite simple — to justify the further terror they are planning.'

It is worth noting that Russia also struck the Chernobyl nuclear plant’s sarcophagus in 2025, underscoring a troubling pattern of aggression against nuclear sites. These developments raise serious concerns about the safety of nuclear facilities in and around Ukraine.

The wave of information provocations surrounding Ukraine’s nuclear power plants highlights the strategic importance of these sites in the broader conflict. Ensuring the security of such critical infrastructure remains a top priority for the state, as any action that threatens nuclear safety could have severe consequences not only for Ukraine but for the entire region. Amid an active information war, it is essential to scrutinize statements and actions from all sides to counter disinformation and keep the public accurately informed.