Russian Forces Shell Zaporizhzhia Nuclear Power Plant in Historic Attack
First attack on operating nuclear facility in history raises fears of radiation disaster as Russians seize Europe's largest nuclear plant
First Military Attack on Operating Nuclear Plant in History
Russian forces shelled and seized the Zaporizhzhia Nuclear Power Plant on March 4, 2022, in the first attack on an operating nuclear facility in history, raising global fears of a potential radiation disaster and nuclear catastrophe.
Key Facts
- Facility: Europe’s largest nuclear power plant
- Capacity: 6 reactors generating 20% of Ukraine’s electricity
- Attack time: Early morning hours
- Immediate result: Fire in training building, Russian occupation
The Attack
Russian forces began shelling the nuclear complex around 1:00 AM local time, targeting administrative buildings and training facilities. The attack caused a fire that burned for several hours while Ukrainian staff worked to maintain reactor safety under armed occupation.
Global Alarm
The attack triggered immediate international alarm, with leaders worldwide expressing fears of a nuclear disaster potentially worse than Chernobyl. Emergency meetings were called at the UN Security Council and other international bodies.
IAEA Response
The International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) reported that essential equipment was not damaged and radiation levels remained normal, but condemned the attack as unprecedented and extremely dangerous.
Plant Operations Under Occupation
Ukrainian nuclear technicians continued operating the plant under Russian military control, working to maintain safety protocols while being held at gunpoint. The occupation created an unprecedented situation in nuclear safety.
International Law Violations
The attack violated multiple international laws, including the Geneva Conventions and nuclear safety protocols. Targeting nuclear facilities is considered a war crime under international humanitarian law.
Safety Concerns
Nuclear experts warned that continued fighting around the plant could lead to:
- Reactor damage and potential meltdown
- Spent fuel storage facility damage
- Loss of external power supply
- Disruption of cooling systems
Ukrainian Government Response
President Zelensky accused Russia of “nuclear terrorism” and called for immediate international intervention to secure the facility. Ukrainian officials demanded Russian withdrawal from all nuclear facilities.
European Energy Impact
The plant’s capture gave Russia control over a significant portion of Ukraine’s electricity generation, adding energy security to the list of weapons being used in the conflict.
Long-term Occupation
The Russian occupation of Zaporizhzhia would continue for months, with repeated shelling and military activities around the facility creating ongoing nuclear safety risks and international concern.
The attack marked a dangerous escalation in warfare tactics and highlighted the vulnerability of civilian nuclear infrastructure during military conflicts.