Mayor of Enerhodar: without Ukraine, Zaporizhzhia NPP will not operate stably
The mayor of the occupied Enerhodar, Dmytro Orlov, expressed concern about the situation surrounding the Zaporizhzhia NPP, stating that the plant cannot function stably without Ukraine’s involvement. His remarks came amid statements from President Zelensky and US special envoy Keith Kellogg.
The Zaporizhzhia Nuclear Power Plant, the largest in Europe, along with its satellite city Enerhodar, was occupied by Russia at the beginning of the large-scale invasion. During this time, the NPP has experienced more than ten blackouts, posing a threat not only to its operation but also to regional safety.
Mayor Dmytro Orlov stated that over 2000 plant employees have signed contracts with Russia’s “Rosatom,” but this does not solve the problem. He emphasizes that without the involvement of Ukrainian specialists, stable operation of the plant is impossible.
President Zelensky emphasized that without resolving the issue of the Zaporizhzhia NPP, negotiations to end the war with Russia cannot be completed. Keith Kellogg identified the NPP and Donbas as key issues for achieving peace.
The Zaporizhzhia NPP has turned into a significant military base, raising concerns in the international community. The importance of returning control of the plant to Ukraine is recognized as critically important for the future energy stability in the region.
