What's happened
As the conflict in Ukraine continues, the Zaporizhzhia nuclear power plant remains a focal point of danger, while the U.S. explores reviving Three Mile Island. Both scenarios highlight the complex dynamics of nuclear energy amid geopolitical tensions and safety concerns.
Why it matters
What the papers say
The Independent highlights the precarious situation at the Zaporizhzhia nuclear power plant, emphasizing the fears of both bombings and radiation. It notes that local families are adapting by constructing underground schools, prioritizing immediate safety over long-term nuclear risks. In contrast, the New York Times discusses the potential revival of the Three Mile Island reactor, focusing on the financial backing from Microsoft and the challenges of restoring public trust in nuclear energy. The article underscores the historical context of nuclear power in the U.S., where past failures have led to skepticism about the industry's future. Together, these perspectives illustrate the complex interplay between safety, public perception, and the future of nuclear energy in both Ukraine and the U.S.
How we got here
The Zaporizhzhia nuclear power plant has been under Russian control since early in the Ukraine conflict, raising fears of potential nuclear incidents. Meanwhile, the U.S. is considering reviving the Three Mile Island reactor, reflecting a shift in attitudes towards nuclear energy.
More on these topics
-
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.
-
Volodymyr Oleksandrovych Zelenskyy is a Ukrainian politician, actor and comedian who is the 6th and current president of Ukraine, serving since May 2019.
-
Zaporizhzhia, Zaporizhia, or Zaporizhzhya, also known as Zaporozhye and formerly as Alexandrovsk or Oleksandrivsk, is a city in south-eastern Ukraine, situated on the banks of the Dnipro. It is the administrative centre of the Zaporizhzhia Oblast. Zaporiz