Ukraine accuses Russia of targeting nuclear plant

Ukraine cáo buộc Nga nhắm mục tiêu tập kích vào nhà máy hạt nhân - 1 — Khmelnytskyi nuclear power plant near the city of Netishyn, Khmelnytskyi region, Ukraine on August 31 (Photo: Reuters).

President Zelensky alleged that the Russian drone attack early on October 25 in the western Khmelnitskyi region may have targeted the region's nuclear power plant.

The attack shattered factory windows and injured 20 people, according to Ukraine.

The International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), the United Nations nuclear watchdog, said the explosions from the drone attack did not affect the plant’s operations or its connection to the power grid. Power was temporarily cut to some radiation monitoring stations outside the facility.

Mr Zelensky said the attack provided further evidence that tougher sanctions against Russia were needed.

"It is very likely that the target of these drones was the Khmelnitskyi nuclear power plant. The shock wave from the explosion shattered windows, including inside the nuclear power plant premises," he said.

Regional Governor Serhiy Tyurin said more than 1,700 structures were damaged, including 282 apartment buildings, more than 1,400 private homes, 41 educational institutions and six healthcare facilities.

"The destruction of many windows at this nuclear facility shows how close the attack was. Next time, we may not be so lucky," IAEA Director General Rafael Grossi said in a statement.

The Ukrainian military said it destroyed all 11 Russian drones launched overnight. The damage to underground structures was caused by waves caused by explosions and falling debris, according to the Ukrainian Interior Ministry.

"At night, the enemy launched an attack near the Khmelnytskyi nuclear power plant. As a result of the explosion, windows in administrative and laboratory buildings were damaged," the Ukrainian Energy Ministry said.

Power lines were also damaged, leaving more than 1,800 people in the neighboring towns of Netishyn and Slavuta without power.

The Khmelnytskyi area has been frequently targeted by Russian drones and missiles, with analysts saying the attacks were linked to a military airport in the area.

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