Zelensky Warns of Nuclear Threats from Russia’s Attacks

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has raised alarms at the United Nations about Russia’s plans to intensify attacks on Ukraine’s nuclear power plants, warning that such actions could lead to a catastrophic “nuclear disaster.” In his address, he shared intelligence indicating that Moscow is utilizing satellites provided by foreign nations to gather critical information on Ukraine’s nuclear infrastructure.

“Radiation does not respect state borders, and many nations could feel a devastating effect,” Zelensky cautioned during the UN General Assembly session on Wednesday. This stark warning underscores the international implications of any nuclear incident arising from ongoing hostilities.

Since the onset of its full-scale invasion in February 2022, Russia has consistently targeted Ukraine’s energy facilities. Zelensky emphasized the potential for disaster, stating, “Any critical incident in the energy system could lead to a nuclear disaster—such a day must never come.” He urged the international community to recognize the seriousness of the situation, insisting that Moscow must understand the risks involved. “These are nuclear power plants. They must be safe,” he asserted.

The UN’s nuclear watchdog had previously warned that safety conditions at the Zaporizhzhia power plant, which remains under Russian control, are deteriorating. Recently, there was a strike near the facility that jeopardized essential water sprinkler systems, coming dangerously close to the only remaining high-voltage line. Since being seized early in the conflict, the plant has been the focal point of repeated attacks, with both sides blaming each other for the hostilities.

In his speech, Zelensky further lamented that Russia has systematically destroyed all of Ukraine’s thermal power plants and significantly damaged its hydroelectric capacity, viewing these acts as a strategy to “torment” the Ukrainian population as winter approaches. “Energy must stop being used as a weapon,” he declared, pointing to the widespread blackouts affecting millions of Ukrainians as a consequence of Russian strikes, including the complete destruction of a major power plant near Kyiv in April.

While in the United States, Zelensky is set to meet with President Joe Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris. However, an official from Donald Trump’s campaign stated that the Republican nominee would not be meeting with the Ukrainian leader. This contrasts with previous reports suggesting a possible meeting between Zelensky and Trump. Trump has described Zelensky as the “greatest salesman on Earth” and suggested that the U.S. would be “stuck in that war” unless he wins the election in November.

In his UN address, Zelensky also criticized China and Brazil for advocating negotiations with Russia, questioning their motivations in light of the ongoing conflict. He reiterated his call for nations to support Ukraine’s proposals for a comprehensive and just peace, emphasizing that Russian forces must withdraw from Ukraine’s internationally recognized borders to resolve the war. Zelensky firmly stated that Ukraine would not accept a return to a “brutal, colonial past.”

As the situation escalates, Zelensky’s warnings highlight the urgent need for international intervention to protect nuclear facilities and ensure the safety of the Ukrainian populace. The global community faces a critical juncture as tensions continue to rise, and the repercussions of inaction could extend well beyond Ukraine’s borders, threatening global security and stability. The potential for nuclear incidents adds a chilling dimension to the ongoing conflict, making it imperative for world leaders to act decisively to avert disaster.

With winter approaching and energy resources dwindling, Zelensky’s appeals for support take on heightened urgency. The outcome of his meetings in the U.S. may prove pivotal not just for Ukraine, but for the broader geopolitical landscape as well.