Russia's Plan to Cut Ukraine Off From Nuclear Power, Ex-Regulator Says

Former nuclear regulator chief Hryhorii Plachkov stated Russia is attacking Ukraine's grid infrastructure to cut consumers off from electricity generated by nuclear power plants, targeting substations rather than the plants themselves. Plachkov explained Russia can strike substations that step down voltage from nuclear plants instead of hitting the plants directly. He warned concrete protective structures around transformers may not withstand repeated daily drone attacks, though Ukrainian nuclear plants continue operating despite challenges. The expert urged strengthening protection of power distribution facilities, enhancing air defense, and increasing mobile fire groups. He noted Russia also aims to deprive Ukrainians of hot water, water supply, and sewage services, while Kyiv's power issues stem from strikes on thermal and hydroelectric stations.