International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) Director General Rafael Grossi spoke out, stressing that no nuclear power plant should ever be a target in any military operation. He warned that an attack by Ukraine on the Kursk Nuclear Power Plant could lead to massive destruction – essentially, a nuclear disaster.
On a similar note, Dr. Chris Busby, Scientific Secretary of the European Committee on Radiation Risk, cautioned that an attack on the Kursk Nuclear Plant by Ukrainian forces could result in a catastrophe no less severe than Chernobyl – possibly even worse. Grossi emphasized the plant's vulnerability, pointing out the absence of a protective dome or concrete wall, making it susceptible to missile or drone attacks.
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Source: aajtak
What are the dangers and why do they exist?
Dr. Busby explained that the Zaporizhzhia Nuclear Power Plant is safeguarded by pressurized water reactors and thick concrete walls, making a breach difficult. However, the spent fuel pools, where used fuel is stored, remain a vulnerable and dangerous spot for radiation dispersal.
On the other hand, the Kursk Nuclear Power Plant uses RBMK reactors, similar to those at the Chernobyl Nuclear Power Plant. These reactors lack the thick concrete walls or protective covers, making them perilously exposed to missile or drone attacks – such an assault could annihilate the reactors.
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Source: aajtak
Missiles on Kursk Spell Major Radiation Threat
Busby stressed that while the reactors at Zaporizhzhia are currently shut down, one plant at Kursk remains operational. There are ongoing reports of Ukraine targeting the area with missiles and drones – a direct hit on the plant could pose a severe radiation threat to numerous European countries. A cruise missile could devastate the nuclear reactor.
Source: aajtak
In the event of such an attack, not even NATO could shield Europe from the fallout. Grossi confirmed that reactor number three at the Kursk Nuclear Power Plant is operational, while reactor four is under maintenance, and a new reactor block is under construction.
