He delivered this remark during a panel discussion at the Atlantic Council, which is a think tank focused on international affairs.
Read also:
Russia obstructs IAEA shift change at Europe’s biggest nuclear power plant.
Halushchenko highlighted a scenario where one nation forcibly takes over a nuclear plant and retains control—regardless of whether they operate it—which establishes a perilous precedent. If the global community overlooks Russia’s behavior, it could weaken the attractiveness for investments in nuclear power globally.
The minister additionally spoke about the concept of shared administration of the Zaporizhzhia Nuclear Power Plant, a notion that was apparently entertained by former U.S. President Donald Trump.
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Ukraine states that restarting the Zaporizhzhia nuclear plant can only occur following complete liberation from occupation.
He pointed out that Ukraine views the ZNPP as a possible strategic energy resource, particularly with regard to the nation’s extensive post-war reconstruction efforts. To meet upcoming energy needs, substantial generating capability will be essential, and nuclear power is expected to have a crucial function in this scenario.
Halushchenko also highlighted significant safety concerns. Ever since August of last year, there have been
over 150 recorded incidents
Russian missiles or drones have flown over or close to functioning Ukrainian nuclear power plants during these incidents. Such occurrences breach international norms and heighten the possibility of a situation akin to Fukushima—where emergencies like power failures could lead to uncontrolled reactor conditions.
The minister underscored that nuclear safety
must not be a matter of compromise or political maneuvering.
Ukraine keeps bringing this matter to the IAEA’s notice and calls for specialists to examine not just the plant but also the crucial nearby facilities.
“The moment we allow the forceful seizure of a nuclear site even once,” Halushchenko warned, “it will send a dangerous message to the entire world.”
Read also:
Trump’s Zaporizhzhya NPP gamble is costly burden
The ZNPP is Europe’s largest nuclear power plant and is critical to Ukraine’s long-term economic viability, given the low price of electricity it generates thanks to economies of scale. It has been under Russian military occupation since early 2022 and is situated right on the frontline in Ukraine’s Zaporizhzhya Oblast.
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The Fresh Voice of Ukraine
Section: Business
Author: Дарина Халперина
