Moscow has levelled a grave accusation against Kyiv, alleging a Ukrainian unmanned aerial vehicle targeted the Kursk nuclear power plant in western Russia. The Russian defence ministry claims the incident occurred on Sunday, marking a significant and dangerous escalation in the ongoing conflict.
The alleged attack, which Russian authorities say involved a fixed-wing drone, is said to have taken place near the plant's administrative building complex. According to the Russian state nuclear corporation, Rosatom, there were no reports of casualties and critical infrastructure remained undamaged. Radiation levels in the area were reported to be normal.
Vehement Denials from Kyiv
Ukraine has forcefully denied any involvement in the incident. A spokesperson for the Ukrainian military's strategic communications centre dismissed the Russian claims as "a provocation and a complete fabrication". This denial aligns with Ukraine's longstanding position of not confirming or denying specific operations on Russian soil.
The Kursk nuclear station, located just 60 miles from the Ukrainian border, is in relatively close proximity to the ongoing frontline fighting. The new Kursk II station, currently under construction at the same site, is intended to replace the ageing current plant.
International Alarm and Historical Context
The incident has sent shockwaves through the international community, prompting immediate calls for restraint. A spokesperson for the UN secretary-general expressed deep concern, stating, "Any alleged attack against a nuclear facility is unacceptable." The International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) has said it is seeking further information from Russian officials.
This event evokes chilling memories of the Zaporizhzhia nuclear power plant in southern Ukraine, which was seized by Russian forces in the early days of the invasion. That facility has been repeatedly caught in the crossfire, with both sides trading blame for shelling around its perimeter, creating a persistent risk of a nuclear catastrophe.
The accusation comes amidst a series of reported drone attacks deep inside Russian territory, targeting energy and military infrastructure. While rarely claiming responsibility, Ukraine views these strikes as legitimate acts of self-defence against a brutal invasion.
The world now watches with bated breath, hoping this dangerous allegation does not precipitate a further and more devastating escalation in a conflict already fraught with peril.
