Permanent representative Nebenzya announced a possible provocation of Kyiv in the event of the withdrawal of the Russian military from the ZNPP

If the Russian military leaves the Zaporizhzhya nuclear power plant, Ukraine can use this facility for “monstrous provocations.” This opinion was expressed by the Permanent Representative of the Russian Federation to the UN Vasily Nebenzya at a meeting of the UN Security Council.

He noted that the efforts of the Russian military have so far managed to protect the station and prevent a nuclear catastrophe. Their departure from the ZNPP could turn into a provocation on the part of Kyiv, Nebenzya added.

“Those who propose the withdrawal of Russian troops should be aware of the consequences of the fact that this object will be left without protection and can be used by Kyiv and nationalist groups for the most monstrous provocations,” the permanent representative said (quote according to RIA Novosti). He also stressed that Russia does not use nuclear facilities for military purposes.

Nebenzya added that Moscow is surprised by the irresponsibility of the European authorities, who continue to support Kyiv and thereby endanger their own citizens. “We urge you, colleagues, to convey to your leaders the need to influence the Kyiv regime and force it to stop the reckless strikes on the Zaporizhzhya nuclear power plant, which actually take the inhabitants of European states hostage,” Nebenzya said.

On August 10, Russia requested a meeting of the UN Security Council in connection with the Ukrainian military attacks on the Zaporozhye nuclear power plant. It took place the next day.

On August 5, the CAA of the Zaporozhye region announced another attack by the Armed Forces of Ukraine on the Zaporozhye NPP. As a result, two power lines and water pipes were damaged. The Russian Defense Ministry called Ukraine’s actions “nuclear terrorism”. The department noted that the accident at the Zaporozhye nuclear power plant will cause a global man-made disaster. On the night of August 7, the Armed Forces of Ukraine again attacked the nuclear power plant. Also, the attacks continued on August 11 – the Ukrainian military attacked the Zaporozhye nuclear power plant using MLRS and heavy artillery.

Earlier, the Russian Embassy in the United States called on the UN and the IAEA to pay attention to the actions of Kyiv and condemn them. The diplomats stressed that the shelling of the Ukrainian military threatens the nuclear security of all of Europe.

Also, UN Secretary General António Guterres called the attacks on the ZNPP a “suicidal act” and called for an end to them. He also expressed hope that the IAEA would gain access to the station.

Subscribe on “Vedomosti” in Telegram and stay up to date with the main news of the economy and business