Zelenskyy calls on Russia to leave the ZNPP with "no conditions attached"
Alona Mazurenko — Monday, 15 August 2022, 23:02
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy called on the international community to impose new sanctions against the nuclear industry of the Russian Federation because of the weapons stationed on the premises of Zaporizhzhia Nuclear Power Plant (ZNPP). Zelenskyy calls on the Russian Federation to leave the premises of the Ukrainian nuclear plant with "no conditions attached."
Source: Presidential video address
Quote: "Any radiation incident at the Zaporizhzhia NPP may affect the countries of the European Union, Turkey, and Georgia, and countries from more distant regions. Everything will depend solely on the direction and strength of the wind. If Russia’s actions lead to a disaster, the consequences may hit those who have remained silent so far. This issue has already been brought to the highest international level by the UN and the IAEA."
"Of course, the states discuss Russian nuclear blackmail. Ministers of Foreign Affairs of the G7 made a respective statement: they clearly understand that Russia is responsible for this nuclear crisis. However, we need to move on from discussions and calls to new tough sanctions against Russia, against Rosatom and the entire nuclear industry of the terrorist state. All Russian forces must immediately withdraw from the territory of the power plant and neighbouring areas — no conditions attached."
Details: Volodymyr Zelenskyy stated that the world has been fighting for proper control over all activities involving nuclear materials and radiation safety for many decades: "And if the world lacks the strength and determination to protect one nuclear plant, it means that the world is already losing."
The President added that there is still a chance to prevent this defeat.
Background:
- On August 15, Energoatom reported that the ZNPP operates under the risk of violating radiation and fire safety standards since the Russians fired at several buildings, including the fire station.
- Earlier, during the UN Security Council meeting, the U.S. representatives noted that it was necessary to withdraw Russian troops from ZNPP for the safety of the nuclear power plant. They also stated the necessity of establishing a demilitarised zone at ZNPP and ensuring the access for IAEA experts.
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