Russia and Ukraine Agree on Local Ceasefire Near Zaporizhzhia Nuclear Power Plant

Russia and Ukraine have agreed to introduce a localized ceasefire in the area of the Zaporizhzhia Nuclear Power Plant in order to carry out repair work on a damaged power transmission line. The International Atomic Energy Agency reported that the arrangement is intended to restore electricity supply to infrastructure critical for the facility’s safety.

The agreement concerns the last remaining backup power line needed to supply electricity to the plant’s safety systems. Although all six reactors at the Zaporizhzhia Nuclear Power Plant were shut down earlier, the facility continues to require stable external power to maintain cooling systems and prevent emergency situations.

The agency stated that repair work is expected to begin in the coming days, provided the ceasefire is observed in the immediate vicinity of the technical operations. Officials stressed that the arrangement is limited in scope and applies solely to ensuring the safety of personnel and nuclear infrastructure during the repairs.

At the same time, international observers note that the situation around the plant remains tense. According to the agency’s on-site mission, explosions have continued to be heard in recent days near the facility, along with air raid alerts. Military activity has also been reported in the surrounding area, maintaining risks to the stable operation of the plant.

The Zaporizhzhia Nuclear Power Plant remains one of the most sensitive sites in the conflict zone. The opposing sides have repeatedly accused each other of creating risks to nuclear safety, while international organizations have consistently called for a secure and predictable safety regime around the facility and restraint from any military actions in its vicinity.

The agency emphasized that restoring the power line is a necessary step to reduce immediate risks, but it does not address broader security challenges linked to ongoing hostilities. It reiterated calls for the parties to ensure stable conditions for the plant’s operation and to uphold international obligations related to nuclear safety.

Sources:

Reuters

The Moscow Times