Four Years Under Occupation: Russia's Transformation of the Zaporizhzhia Nuclear Plant into a Military Base.

Statement by Ukraine's Foreign Minister

According to UATV: On March 4, 2024, Ukrainian Foreign Minister Dmytro Kuleba highlighted the four-year-long illegal Russian occupation of the Zaporizhzhia Nuclear Power Plant (ZNPP). He stressed that the facility has effectively been converted into a military base, posing a severe threat not only to Ukraine but to the whole of Europe. The ZNPP is Europe's largest nuclear power station, making its militarization a critical international security issue.

Kuleba also expressed deep concern over Kremlin plans to restart the plant's reactors while it remains under occupation.

"The Kremlin's plans to restart the reactors under occupation are dangerous and illegal," he stated.

Kuleba underscored the necessity of demilitarizing the station and returning it to its rightful owner and operator—Ukraine.

"The plant must be demilitarized and returned to its legal owner and operator—Ukraine," he added.

Consequences of the Zaporizhzhia NPP Occupation

Given the Zaporizhzhia plant's status as one of Europe's largest nuclear facilities, its occupation and use for military purposes could have catastrophic consequences for Ukraine and the wider region. The Ukrainian government's declarations highlight the urgent need for international support on nuclear safety and immediate action to prevent a dangerous escalation of tensions surrounding the site.