What's happened
The Zaporizhzhia nuclear plant, occupied by Russian forces since 2022, has regained off-site power after a four-week outage. Repairs involved both Ukrainian and Russian forces working under a ceasefire, with the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) emphasizing the importance of restoring external power for nuclear safety amid ongoing conflict and water supply issues following the destruction of the Kakhovka Dam.
What's behind the headline?
The recent restoration of off-site power at Zaporizhzhia marks a critical step in stabilizing nuclear safety amid the ongoing Ukraine conflict. The cooperation between Ukrainian and Russian forces, facilitated by the IAEA, underscores the recognition that nuclear safety transcends military hostilities. The establishment of ceasefire zones for repairs demonstrates a rare moment of constructive engagement in a war characterized by mutual blame and destruction. The plant's reliance on diesel generators for four weeks highlights the fragility of nuclear infrastructure in conflict zones, and the water supply crisis caused by the Kakhovka Dam's destruction exacerbates risks of nuclear meltdown and environmental contamination. Moving forward, sustained efforts are essential to fully restore reliable power and water supplies, preventing potential nuclear disasters that could have regional and global consequences. The situation exemplifies how geopolitical tensions directly threaten nuclear safety, and the importance of international oversight and cooperation in mitigating these risks.
What the papers say
The Independent reports that the power restoration involved Ukrainian and Russian forces working under a ceasefire, with the IAEA emphasizing the importance of external power for safety. AP News confirms that repairs are ongoing, with Ukrainian specialists involved, and highlights the ongoing water crisis following the Kakhovka Dam's destruction. Politico notes that this is the longest blackout since the invasion, with the plant operating on diesel generators, and underscores the importance of international cooperation. The Moscow Times and Al Jazeera detail the complex negotiations and the role of the IAEA, emphasizing the delicate balance of military and technical efforts to ensure safety. All sources agree that the restoration is a vital, yet fragile, step in preventing nuclear catastrophe in a highly volatile conflict zone.
How we got here
Since Russia's invasion of Ukraine in 2022, the Zaporizhzhia nuclear plant has been under Russian control and has faced repeated power outages. The plant's six reactors, which previously supplied about 20% of Ukraine's electricity, have been shut down and rely on diesel generators for cooling. The plant's connection to the Ukrainian grid was severed in September 2025, prompting international concern over nuclear safety. Repairs to restore external power have been complicated by ongoing hostilities, requiring ceasefire zones for safe work, with both sides cooperating under IAEA supervision. The destruction of the Kakhovka Dam has further threatened cooling water supplies, raising fears of nuclear contamination and environmental damage.
Go deeper
Common question
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What’s the latest on Zaporizhzhia nuclear plant safety after power restored?
The Zaporizhzhia nuclear plant, Europe's largest, recently regained power after weeks of outage caused by ongoing conflict. This restoration raises important questions about the safety of nuclear facilities in war zones and what it means for regional security. Below, we explore key concerns and what the future might hold for this critical site.
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How Was the Zaporizhzhia Nuclear Plant's Power Restored?
The recent restoration of power at Ukraine's Zaporizhzhia nuclear plant marks a significant development amid ongoing conflict. This event raises important questions about nuclear safety, the management of ceasefire zones, and the risks involved during wartime. Below, we explore key questions to understand what this means for Ukraine, Russia, and global nuclear safety.
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Is the Zaporizhzhia nuclear plant safe now?
The Zaporizhzhia nuclear plant has recently regained external power after a four-week outage caused by ongoing conflict. This development raises important questions about nuclear safety during wartime, international cooperation, and the impact of water supply issues. Below, we explore what this means for the plant's safety and the broader implications for nuclear energy in conflict zones.
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How Does Conflict Affect Nuclear Power Plants?
Conflicts and wars can have serious impacts on nuclear power plants, affecting their safety and operation. Recent events at the Zaporizhzhia plant highlight how ongoing hostilities can threaten nuclear safety, from power outages to water supply issues. Understanding these risks is crucial for assessing global nuclear security and the role of international agencies in crisis management. Below, we explore common questions about the intersection of conflict and nuclear power, providing clear insights into this complex issue.
More on these topics
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The International Atomic Energy Agency is an international organization that seeks to promote the peaceful use of nuclear energy, and to inhibit its use for any military purpose, including nuclear weapons.
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The Zaporizhzhia Nuclear Power Station (Ukrainian: Запорізька атомна електростанція, romanized: Zaporiz'ka atomna elektrostantsiia; Russian: Запорожская атомная электростанция, romanized: Zapor
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Ukraine is a country in Eastern Europe. It is the second-largest European country after Russia, which borders it to the east and northeast.
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Russia, or the Russian Federation, is a transcontinental country located in Eastern Europe and Northern Asia. Covering an area of 17,125,200 square kilometres, it is the largest country in the world by area, spanning more than one-eighth of the Earth's in
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Vladimir Vladimirovich Putin is a Russian politician and former intelligence officer who has served as President of Russia since 2012, previously holding the position from 1999 until 2008.
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Rafael Mariano Grossi is an Argentine diplomat. Since 3 December 2019, he serves as Director General of the International Atomic Energy Agency.