According to the Russian state nuclear corporation Rosatom, a Ukrainian military drone struck a gallery connecting the six reactor units at the Zaporizhzhia Nuclear Power Plant, landing mere meters from the third reactor’s containment vessel. Rosatom Director General Alexey Likhachev stated that the drone hit the personnel passageway overnight, though it thankfully did not detonate into a full blast.
Dry Spent Fuel Storage Facility Targeted
Beyond the reactor building strike, Likhachev reported that Ukrainian forces also attempted to target the site’s dry spent fuel storage facility. According to Rosatom, an unexploded drone was discovered right next to the transporter storage building on July 30. This specialized structure houses the unique transport vehicle designated for moving containers filled with radioactive spent fuel around the facility grounds.
Did you know?
The Zaporizhzhia Nuclear Power Plant features six reactor units.
Casualties and Ongoing Shelling in Energodar
The surrounding city of Energodar remains trapped in a persistent security crisis. Likhachev told journalists that the municipality experiences round-the-clock artillery shelling and continuous drone attacks. Rosatom figures show that these ongoing strikes have claimed five lives and left 51 people injured since April 27.
IAEA Inspection Expectations
In response to the escalating hazards at the atomic station, Likhachev voiced expectations for International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) leadership. He stated that Rosatom hopes the IAEA Director General will soon travel to the Zaporizhzhia facility and Energodar to conduct an on-site assessment of the security situation.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where did the drone strike occur at the Zaporizhzhia Nuclear Power Plant?
According to Rosatom, a drone struck the pedestrian and staff gallery connecting all six reactor units, landing just meters away from the third reactor’s containment structure.
Were there any casualties in Energodar from recent attacks?
Rosatom reported that between April 27 and late July, attacks on Energodar resulted in five deaths and 51 injuries.
What facility near the reactors was also targeted?
Rosatom stated that Ukrainian forces attempted to strike the dry spent fuel storage facility, leaving an unexploded drone near the transporter storage building.
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