Zaporizhzhia: The vast nuclear plant in the eye of the war in Ukraine

Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on the Ukraine-Russia conflict on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately report this developing news story, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos.

Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on the Ukraine-Russia conflict on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately report this developing news story, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos. The Russian-occupied Zaporizhzhia nuclear power plant resumed electricity supplies after it was reconnected to Ukraine's electricity grid on Friday (August 26), a day after it was cut off, which raised concerns globally about a nuclear incident. "Today, August 26, 2022, at 2:04 pm (1104 GMT) one of the power units... that was stopped yesterday was connected to the power grid," the nuclear agency Energoatom said on Telegram. "The Zaporizhzhia nuclear power station is connected to the grid and is producing electricity for the needs of Ukraine," it added. ALSO READ | Nuclear power plant staff averted ‘radiation disaster’ after blackout: Zelensky Zaporizhzhia, Europe's largest nuclear facility, is located near the Russian-annexed Crimean peninsula. It has six Soviet-designed VVER-1000 V-320 water-cooled and water-moderated reactors. Those reactors contain Uranium 235, which has a half-life of more than 700 million years. It is capable of supplying power to four million homes. WATCH | World narrowly avoided a nuclear disaster at the Zaporizhzhia power plant, says Zelensky × ALSO READ | US Senator refers to Taiwan as 'country', vows support to help it become an 'independent nation' In the past few weeks, concerns were raised over a potential nuclear disaster with both sides blaming each other for the reported firing at the facility. Russian forces took over the Zaporizhzhia nuclear plant soon after the nation announced the invasion of Ukraine on February 24, what it refers to as a "special military operation". But the plant is still run by Ukrainian technicians. The United Nations has called for the area to be demilitarised. The latest statement by Energoatom further added, "Nuclear workers of Zaporizhzhia NPP are real heroes! They tirelessly and firmly hold the nuclear and radiation safety of Ukraine and the whole of Europe on their shoulders and work selflessly so that their native country has life-giving electricity." Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky said that the loss of power led to backup diesel generators being "immediately activated" to avert a "radiation disaster". WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Russian-held Zaporizhzhia nuclear plant reconnected to Ukrainian grid after concerns over radiation crisis

Russian state media reports safety systems at the Zaporizhzhia Nuclear Power Plant in the south of Ukraine have been activated. The systems were activated after power cuts were reported.

Ukraine: Zaporizhzhia Nuclear Power Plant in focus, safety systems activated after power outages

Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on the Ukraine-Russia conflict on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately report this developing news story, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos.

Russia-occupied Zaporizhzhia nuclear plant in southeastern Ukraine was disconnected from the national power supply on Thursday (August 25), the state energy operator said.&nbsp;

Energoatom said on Telegram: "The actions of the invaders caused a complete disconnection of the (Zaporizhzhia Nuclear Power Plant) from the power grid - the first in the history of the plant."&nbsp;

Zaporizhzhia, which is Europe's largest nuclear facility, is located near the Russian-annexed Crimean peninsula. It has six Soviet-designed VVER-1000 V-320 water-cooled and water-moderated reactors containing Uranium 235, which has a half-life of more than 700 million years. It is capable of supplying power to four million homes.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/un-rights-chief-admits-tremendous-pressure-over-xinjiang-report-says-not-clear-when-it-will-be-published-510133">UN rights chief admits 'tremendous pressure' over Xinjiang report, says not clear when it will be published</a>&nbsp;

In recent days, concerns of a potential nuclear disaster have been raised at Zaporizhzhia. Amid the ongoing Russia-Ukraine war, both sides have accused each other of firing at the facility.&nbsp;

The Russian forces took over soon after the February 24 invasion. The plant is still run by Ukrainian technicians. The United Nations has called for the area to be demilitarised.&nbsp;

WATCH |&nbsp;War in Ukraine: Zelensky details the Chaplyne strike in UNSC&nbsp;

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Meanwhile, the plant was disconnected from Ukraine's national supply system after a power line was twice disconnected by fires at ash pits in an adjacent thermal power plant, Energoatom said.&nbsp;

The three other power lines "were earlier damaged during terrorist attacks" by Russian forces, the operator said and as a result, the two of the plant's six reactors still functioning "were disconnected from the network". &nbsp;

Energoatom said, "start-up operations are underway to connect one of the reactors to the network".&nbsp;

As per Kyiv officials, Moscow seized the station in order to divert power to the Crimean peninsula annexed by Russia in 2014.&nbsp;

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Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on the Ukraine-Russia conflict on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately report this developing news story, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos. Russia-occupied Zaporizhzhia nuclear plant in southeastern Ukraine was disconnected from the national power supply on Thursday (August 25), the state energy operator said. Energoatom said on Telegram: "The actions of the invaders caused a complete disconnection of the (Zaporizhzhia Nuclear Power Plant) from the power grid - the first in the history of the plant." Zaporizhzhia, which is Europe's largest nuclear facility, is located near the Russian-annexed Crimean peninsula. It has six Soviet-designed VVER-1000 V-320 water-cooled and water-moderated reactors containing Uranium 235, which has a half-life of more than 700 million years. It is capable of supplying power to four million homes. ALSO READ | UN rights chief admits 'tremendous pressure' over Xinjiang report, says not clear when it will be published In recent days, concerns of a potential nuclear disaster have been raised at Zaporizhzhia. Amid the ongoing Russia-Ukraine war, both sides have accused each other of firing at the facility. The Russian forces took over soon after the February 24 invasion. The plant is still run by Ukrainian technicians. The United Nations has called for the area to be demilitarised. WATCH | War in Ukraine: Zelensky details the Chaplyne strike in UNSC × ALSO READ | US claims strikes in Syria against Iran-backed militia unrelated to nuclear deal Meanwhile, the plant was disconnected from Ukraine's national supply system after a power line was twice disconnected by fires at ash pits in an adjacent thermal power plant, Energoatom said. The three other power lines "were earlier damaged during terrorist attacks" by Russian forces, the operator said and as a result, the two of the plant's six reactors still functioning "were disconnected from the network". Energoatom said, "start-up operations are underway to connect one of the reactors to the network". As per Kyiv officials, Moscow seized the station in order to divert power to the Crimean peninsula annexed by Russia in 2014. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Ukraine war: Russia-occupied Zaporizhzhia nuclear plant disconnected from grid

Zaporizhzhia Nuclear Power Plant which is at the center of the Ukraine conflict continues to worry over a possible nuclear disaster. Reports now suggest that a detailed plan has been drawn up by Russia to disconnect Europe's largest nuclear plant from Ukraine's grid, citing concerns ahead of Ukraine's atomic energy.

Ukraine Nuclear Chief warns over Russian activity at nuclear site

Russia readies emergency blue print, plan risks failure of nuclear plant's cooling system

The world continues to worry over the strikes around Zaporizhzhia nuclear power plant. IAEA has renewed request for the plant visit. Meanwhile IAEA said that Zaporizhzhia plant visit to happen soon if talks succeed.

Russia-Ukraine war: Fears over strikes around Zaporizhzhia nuclear power plant

Russia and Ukraine have accused each other of shelling Zaporizhzhia. Now, International atomic energy agency team will visit Zaporizhzhia. Still the question arises, is Ukraine ready for another Chernobyl-like catastrophe?

Is Ukraine ready for another Chernobyl-like catastrophe?

Russia has now agreed to allow a mission from the International Atomic Energy Agency to inspect the Zaporizhzhia Nuclear power plant. This was confirmed by French President Emmanuel Macron after he had a phone conversation with his Russian counterpart Vladimir Putin.

Zelensky welcomes IAEA inspection, security of plant restored after check

United Nations chief Antonio Guterres on Friday (August 19) said that the Russia-occupied Zaporizhzhia nuclear power station not be cut off from Ukraine's grid.&nbsp;

During his crucial visit to the port of Odessa in southern Ukraine, the UN Secretary-General said, "Obviously, the electricity from Zaporizhzhia is Ukrainian electricity... This principle must be fully respected."

His statement comes after Ukraine reported that Russia was planning to switch off the functioning power blocks at the Zaporizhzhia plant. Ukraine's state nuclear company Energoatom&nbsp;said on Friday that Russian forces are planning to disconnect them from the Ukrainian power grid.

The energy operator said: "There is information that Russian occupying troops are planning to shut off the reactors and switch them from the output lines of the Ukrainian energy system."

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-threatens-to-shut-down-zaporizhzhia-nuclear-plant-anticipates-planned-disaster-508306">Russia threatens to shut down Zaporizhzhia nuclear plant, anticipates 'planned' disaster</a>&nbsp;

Accusing Moscow, Ukraine claimed that Russia will soon cut electricity produced in Russian-held Zaporizhzhia nuclear power plant. But Guterres said that the electricity generated at Zaporizhzhia belonged to Ukraine and demanded that the principle be "fully respected".&nbsp;

Zaporizhzhia nuclear power plant is located near the Russian-annexed Crimean peninsula. It has six of Ukraine's 15 reactors and it is capable of supplying power for four million homes.&nbsp;

Russia and Ukraine have accused each other of preparing "provocations" at the facility. Ukraine even claimed that Russia was shelling Europe's largest nuclear power plant, which was captured by Russia in March but is still run by Ukrainian technicians.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/un-chief-meets-zelensky-and-erdogan-to-secure-zaporizhzhia-nuclear-plant-says-deeply-concerned-508270">UN chief calls for demilitarization of Zaporizhzhia nuclear plant, says 'deeply concerned'</a>&nbsp;

WATCH |&nbsp;Kyiv: Russia told workers not to show up; Russia, Ukraine trade charges&nbsp;

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The recent conflicts have renewed fears that the invasion could result in damage to nuclear reactors. It could trigger another emergency like the 1986 Chernobyl accident, the world's worst nuclear disaster.&nbsp;

Experts have claimed that if the nuclear plant blows up, it will be 10 times larger than Chernobyl.&nbsp;

Guterres addressed those fears earlier this week in Lviv in western Ukraine saying that any damage to the plant would be akin to "suicide".&nbsp;

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United Nations chief Antonio Guterres on Friday (August 19) said that the Russia-occupied Zaporizhzhia nuclear power station not be cut off from Ukraine's grid. During his crucial visit to the port of Odessa in southern Ukraine, the UN Secretary-General said, "Obviously, the electricity from Zaporizhzhia is Ukrainian electricity.

United Nations chief Antonio Guterres on Friday (August 19) said that the Russia-occupied Zaporizhzhia nuclear power station not be cut off from Ukraine's grid. During his crucial visit to the port of Odessa in southern Ukraine, the UN Secretary-General said, "Obviously, the electricity from Zaporizhzhia is Ukrainian electricity... This principle must be fully respected." His statement comes after Ukraine reported that Russia was planning to switch off the functioning power blocks at the Zaporizhzhia plant. Ukraine's state nuclear company Energoatom said on Friday that Russian forces are planning to disconnect them from the Ukrainian power grid. The energy operator said: "There is information that Russian occupying troops are planning to shut off the reactors and switch them from the output lines of the Ukrainian energy system." ALSO READ | Russia threatens to shut down Zaporizhzhia nuclear plant, anticipates 'planned' disaster Accusing Moscow, Ukraine claimed that Russia will soon cut electricity produced in Russian-held Zaporizhzhia nuclear power plant. But Guterres said that the electricity generated at Zaporizhzhia belonged to Ukraine and demanded that the principle be "fully respected". Zaporizhzhia nuclear power plant is located near the Russian-annexed Crimean peninsula. It has six of Ukraine's 15 reactors and it is capable of supplying power for four million homes. Russia and Ukraine have accused each other of preparing "provocations" at the facility. Ukraine even claimed that Russia was shelling Europe's largest nuclear power plant, which was captured by Russia in March but is still run by Ukrainian technicians. ALSO READ | UN chief calls for demilitarization of Zaporizhzhia nuclear plant, says 'deeply concerned' WATCH | Kyiv: Russia told workers not to show up; Russia, Ukraine trade charges × The recent conflicts have renewed fears that the invasion could result in damage to nuclear reactors. It could trigger another emergency like the 1986 Chernobyl accident, the world's worst nuclear disaster. Experts have claimed that if the nuclear plant blows up, it will be 10 times larger than Chernobyl. Guterres addressed those fears earlier this week in Lviv in western Ukraine saying that any damage to the plant would be akin to "suicide". WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

UN chief Antonio Guterres says Russia-occupied nuclear plant not be cut off from Ukraine's grid

Ukraine's nuclear energy provider claims Russia is planning to switch off the functioning power blocks at the Zaporizhzhia nuclear plant and disconnect it from the site from the Ukrainian power grid.

Looming nuclear threat in Southern Ukraine, shelling continues around Zaporizhzhia

Let us take a look at stories generating interest across WION's social media channels.

Trending on WION: UN chief calls for demilitarization of Zaporizhzhia nuclear plant

The threat around the Zaporizhzhia Nuclear Power Plant is far from over. According to the latest reports, Russia has allegedly asked the nuclear power plant workers not to show up at work.

Kyiv: Russia told workers not to show up; Russia, Ukraine trade charges

Kyiv: Speculations rife over 'provocations', Russia told workers to not show up

In Ukraine, the fears of a nuclear disaster are growing everyday. In focus is the Zaporizhzhia nuclear power plant, it's the largest nuclear plant in the Europe and for the last two weeks, Zaporizhzhia has been at great risk.

Zaporizhzhia nuclear power plant: United Nations warns of 'grave' crisis amid violence

Repeated shelling at Europe's largest nuclear power plant has scared the world. Zelensky said that Zaporizhzhia 'catastrophe' would threaten Europe. UN warned of 'grave' crisis amid violence near plant.

Is Europe staring at a nuclear disaster? | Ukraine holds disaster response drills

In Europe, the fears of a nuclear disaster is growing every day. In focus is the Zaporizhzhia nuclear plant which has been at great risks. There has been fresh shelling close to the nuclear plant, both Ukraine and Russia blaming each other.

Zelensky: Zaporizhzhia 'catastrophe' would threaten Europe

The recent shelling around the Zaporizhzhia nuclear plant has scared the world, experts have predicted that these strikes could lead to a possible catastrophe. Meanwhile, Russia has denied claims of plans to use nuke weapons.

Ukraine-Russia war: Battle around Zaporizhzhia nuclear plant worries world

The raging war between Russia and Ukraine is escalating. Both the countries have reported fresh shelling around Zaporizhzhia nuclear plant that has reignited the blame game between the two nations.

Fresh shelling at Zaporizhzhia nuke plant, strike reignite tussle between Russia and Ukraine

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has described Russian forces’ actions at the Zaporizhzhia nuclear power plant as “nuclear blackmail”. Zelensky also added that Russia hides behind the plant to attack nearby cities.

Zelensky accuses Russia of ‘nuclear blackmail’ after shelling at Zaporizhzhia power plant

Europe's largest nuclear power plant is now at the centre of the war in Ukraine. The UN has issued a warning. It says the fighting at the Zaporizhzhia nuclear plant could lead to a nuclear disaster. India has called for restraint. Palki Sharma tells you more.

Gravitas: Europe's largest nuclear power plant at the centre of war

While the two neighbors are busy trading charges over shelling at Zaporizhzhia nuke plant, the world stands in fear of a possible catastrophe.

Fresh strikes at Zaporizhzhia nuke plant, blame game between Moscow and Kyiv continues

Amid the crisis over Ukraine’s Zaporizhzhia nuclear power plant, India has called for “mutual restraint” so as not to “endanger the safety and security of nuclear facilities”. The nuclear plant is among the top 10&nbsp;largest nuclear power plants in the world&nbsp;and is currently under Russian control.

At a United Nations Security Council (UNSC)&nbsp;meet on Ukraine, Indian ambassador to UN Ruchira Kamboj expressed “concern over reports of shelling near the spent fuel storage facility of the Zaporizhzhia nuclear power plant”&nbsp;and highlighted&nbsp;that New Delhi “attaches high importance to ensuring the safety and security of these facilities, as any accident involving nuclear facilities could potentially have severe consequences for public health and the environment.”

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/international-nuclear-watchdog-warns-of-grave-danger-around-zaporizhzhia-nuclear-plant-506078">Watch: IAEA warns of 'grave' danger around Zaporizhzhia nuclear plant</a>

The United Nations and the nuclear watchdog International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) have expressed concerns over the situation in and around the nuclear power plant in southern Ukraine.&nbsp;IAEA’s&nbsp;Director General Rafael Mariano Grossi has requested both Russian and Ukrainian sides to allow access to the site.

The Indian envoy to UN said, “We also accord high priority to the discharge by the IAEA of its safeguards and monitoring activities&nbsp;in accordance with its statute in an effective, non-discriminatory and efficient manner&nbsp;and we value the efforts of the agency in this regard.” New&nbsp;Delhi has taken a “note” of the IAEA’s regular updates on the issue, including those on August 9-10.

Watch:&nbsp;Russian forces fire rockets from nuclear plant site

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Other than the nuclear power plant issue, India also raised the matter of the Ukraine conflict on “developing countries, particularly, on the supply of food grains, fertiliser and fuel”. The ambassador said, “It is important for all of us to appreciate the importance of equity, affordability, and accessibility when it comes to food grains,” cautioning that “open markets must not become an argument to perpetuate inequity and promote discrimination.”

The Ukraine war&nbsp;has impacted supply chains and food grain delivery to many countries across the world. Both Ukraine and Russia are the leading exporters of wheat.&nbsp;At the briefing, India welcomed the UN Secretary General-backed initiative to open the exports of grains from Ukraine via the Black Sea and facilitation of the exports of Russian food and fertilisers. The ambassador said, “These efforts demonstrate that differences can be resolved through sustained dialogue and diplomacy, which has been the consistent position of India.”

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Amid the crisis over Ukraine’s Zaporizhzhia nuclear power plant, India has called for “mutual restraint” so as not to “endanger the safety and security of nuclear facilities”.

Amid the crisis over Ukraine’s Zaporizhzhia nuclear power plant, India has called for “mutual restraint” so as not to “endanger the safety and security of nuclear facilities”. The nuclear plant is among the top 10 largest nuclear power plants in the world and is currently under Russian control. At a United Nations Security Council (UNSC) meet on Ukraine, Indian ambassador to UN Ruchira Kamboj expressed “concern over reports of shelling near the spent fuel storage facility of the Zaporizhzhia nuclear power plant” and highlighted that New Delhi “attaches high importance to ensuring the safety and security of these facilities, as any accident involving nuclear facilities could potentially have severe consequences for public health and the environment.” Watch: IAEA warns of 'grave' danger around Zaporizhzhia nuclear plant The United Nations and the nuclear watchdog International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) have expressed concerns over the situation in and around the nuclear power plant in southern Ukraine. IAEA’s Director General Rafael Mariano Grossi has requested both Russian and Ukrainian sides to allow access to the site. The Indian envoy to UN said, “We also accord high priority to the discharge by the IAEA of its safeguards and monitoring activities in accordance with its statute in an effective, non-discriminatory and efficient manner and we value the efforts of the agency in this regard.” New Delhi has taken a “note” of the IAEA’s regular updates on the issue, including those on August 9-10. Watch: Russian forces fire rockets from nuclear plant site Other than the nuclear power plant issue, India also raised the matter of the Ukraine conflict on “developing countries, particularly, on the supply of food grains, fertiliser and fuel”. The ambassador said, “It is important for all of us to appreciate the importance of equity, affordability, and accessibility when it comes to food grains,” cautioning that “open markets must not become an argument to perpetuate inequity and promote discrimination.” The Ukraine war has impacted supply chains and food grain delivery to many countries across the world. Both Ukraine and Russia are the leading exporters of wheat. At the briefing, India welcomed the UN Secretary General-backed initiative to open the exports of grains from Ukraine via the Black Sea and facilitation of the exports of Russian food and fertilisers. The ambassador said, “These efforts demonstrate that differences can be resolved through sustained dialogue and diplomacy, which has been the consistent position of India.” WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

At UNSC, India calls for restraint, expresses concern over shelling around Ukraine nuclear plant

As the war escalates and blame game continues, Russia and Ukraine have now accused each other of shelling Europe's biggest nuclear power plant as the UN chief proposed a demilitarised zone at the site amid fears of a catastrophe.

Zaporizhzhia shelling: UN chief calls for 'demilitarization of nuke plant'

Is Ukraine staring at a nuclear disaster? Last week, the Zaporizhzhia nuclear plant was struck by shelling & rockets. The explosions broke 3 radiation monitoring detectors. The UN chief has called the ongoing military activity 'suicidal'. Palki Sharma explains the growing risk.

Gravitas: Is Ukraine on the verge of a nuclear disaster?

While attending the 77th anniversary of the world's first atomic bombing in Japan, United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres said any attack on a nuclear plant is a "suicidal thing".

Is the risk of nuclear confrontation back?

Russia and Ukraine are accusing each other of striking Europe's largest nuclear power plant in the Zaporizhzhia on Friday.

Russia, Ukraine blame each other for Zaporizhzhia nuclear plant attack

The Zaporizhzhia and Kherson regions of Ukraine were taken over by the Russian military and on Saturday, the first Russian passports were issued for the residents of the two regions. Local administration told RIA Novosti that 23 passports were issued in the Kherson region and the first one to receive a passport was Vladimir Saldo, head of the military-civilian administration.

"The first passports of citizens of the Russian Federation have already been issued in the Zaporozhye region. For us, this is a significant and historic event. Another step on the way to our return home to Russia," said Vladimir Rogov, a member of the main council of the military-civilian administration of the Zaporozhye region, according to the RIA Novosti report.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-defence-secretary-lloyd-austin-slams-chinas-destabilising-military-activity-near-taiwan-487110" hreflang="en">US Defence Secy slams China's 'destabilising' military activity near Taiwan</a>

Saldo also spoke to RIA Novosti and said that Russia and Ukraine have always been “one country” and hailed the ongoing invasion as “a new history and life” for the people of Ukraine.

“For me, this is really a historic moment. I always thought that we are one country and one people,”

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ursula-von-der-leyen-visits-ukraine-to-discuss-its-bid-to-get-eu-candidacy-status-487183">European Union chief visits Ukraine to discuss its bid to join bloc</a>

“Apparently, fate so pleased not to let this be done to the end. Proof of this are all the events that are happening now. For us, this is a new history and life,” he concluded according to the report.

Earlier, Russian president Vladimir Putin signed a decree to ease the passport process for residents of the two regions. According to Russian authorities, they received thousands of applications for Russian citizenship, and they just need to submit a copy of their Ukrainian passport to apply.

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(With inputs from agencies)

The Zaporizhzhia and Kherson regions of Ukraine were taken over by the Russian military and on Saturday, the first Russian passports were issued for the residents of the two regions.

The Zaporizhzhia and Kherson regions of Ukraine were taken over by the Russian military and on Saturday, the first Russian passports were issued for the residents of the two regions. Local administration told RIA Novosti that 23 passports were issued in the Kherson region and the first one to receive a passport was Vladimir Saldo, head of the military-civilian administration. "The first passports of citizens of the Russian Federation have already been issued in the Zaporozhye region. For us, this is a significant and historic event. Another step on the way to our return home to Russia," said Vladimir Rogov, a member of the main council of the military-civilian administration of the Zaporozhye region, according to the RIA Novosti report. Also read | US Defence Secy slams China's 'destabilising' military activity near Taiwan Saldo also spoke to RIA Novosti and said that Russia and Ukraine have always been “one country” and hailed the ongoing invasion as “a new history and life” for the people of Ukraine. “For me, this is really a historic moment. I always thought that we are one country and one people,” Also read | European Union chief visits Ukraine to discuss its bid to join bloc “Apparently, fate so pleased not to let this be done to the end. Proof of this are all the events that are happening now. For us, this is a new history and life,” he concluded according to the report. Earlier, Russian president Vladimir Putin signed a decree to ease the passport process for residents of the two regions. According to Russian authorities, they received thousands of applications for Russian citizenship, and they just need to submit a copy of their Ukrainian passport to apply. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. (With inputs from agencies)

First Russian passports handed out to Ukrainians in Kherson region: Report

The Russian invasion of Ukraine has officially entered its third month and more people are fleeing the war-torn cities in order to get away from the Russian military forces. The port-city of Mariupol has sustained a lot of damage and over the course of the invasion, it has turned into a ‘ghost town’ with most of the residents moving to neighbouring cities. Igor Pedin was among the people fleeing the besieged city, but his plight took him on a 225km journey to the city of Zaporizhzhia.

Pedin, who is 61 years old, decided to escape the city with nothing more than a small bag of supplies and his nine-year-old mongrel terrier Zhu-Zhu. The long journey took him through Russian-occupied territories, and it was a miracle, according to him, that he made it to Zaporizhzhia safely.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/deadbots-the-digital-soul-that-can-speak-for-you-after-your-death-478639">Deadbots: The digital soul that can speak for you after your death</a>

According to the report of The Guardian, Pedin, a former ship’s cook, decided to leave Mariupol on April 20 when Russian military had already invaded his part of the city and were ‘shooting at will’.

He packed all his belongings carefully and the next morning, he decided to travel to the outskirts of the city where he was handed food and water by the Russian soldiers positioned at the barricades before he started walking on Zaporizhzhia Road.

“I looked like a vagabond to them, I was nothing. I was dirty and covered from dust, as my house had been filled with a fog of smoke. I walked out of the city by this motorway and at the top I turned around. I looked back down at the city and I said to myself, it was the right decision. I said goodbye. There was an explosion. I turned and walked on,” Pedin told The Guardian in an exclusive interview.

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It took him a long time and a lot of hardship but he was finally able to reach the central part of Zaporizhzhia where he was given a pass by the Donetsk People’s Republic militia.

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The Russian invasion of Ukraine has officially entered its third month and more people are fleeing the war-torn cities in order to get away from the Russian military forces.

The Russian invasion of Ukraine has officially entered its third month and more people are fleeing the war-torn cities in order to get away from the Russian military forces. The port-city of Mariupol has sustained a lot of damage and over the course of the invasion, it has turned into a ‘ghost town’ with most of the residents moving to neighbouring cities. Igor Pedin was among the people fleeing the besieged city, but his plight took him on a 225km journey to the city of Zaporizhzhia. Pedin, who is 61 years old, decided to escape the city with nothing more than a small bag of supplies and his nine-year-old mongrel terrier Zhu-Zhu. The long journey took him through Russian-occupied territories, and it was a miracle, according to him, that he made it to Zaporizhzhia safely. Also read | Deadbots: The digital soul that can speak for you after your death According to the report of The Guardian, Pedin, a former ship’s cook, decided to leave Mariupol on April 20 when Russian military had already invaded his part of the city and were ‘shooting at will’. He packed all his belongings carefully and the next morning, he decided to travel to the outskirts of the city where he was handed food and water by the Russian soldiers positioned at the barricades before he started walking on Zaporizhzhia Road. “I looked like a vagabond to them, I was nothing. I was dirty and covered from dust, as my house had been filled with a fog of smoke. I walked out of the city by this motorway and at the top I turned around. I looked back down at the city and I said to myself, it was the right decision. I said goodbye. There was an explosion. I turned and walked on,” Pedin told The Guardian in an exclusive interview. Also read | UAE President and ruler Sheikh Khalifa Bin Zayed Al Nahyan passes away It took him a long time and a lot of hardship but he was finally able to reach the central part of Zaporizhzhia where he was given a pass by the Donetsk People’s Republic militia. WATCH WION TV LIVE HERE -

The Ukrainian man who walked 225km to safety from Mariupol to Zaporizhzhia

Ukraine has been under attack after Russian President Vladimir Putin on February 24 ordered his armed forces to carry out a "military operation" in Ukrainian cities.&nbsp;

Since then, the conflict has escalated with reports of multiple casualties and massive loss of property. The situation has also led to a refugee crisis as people are fleeing Ukraine to save their lives.&nbsp;

The economic impact of the Russia-Ukraine conflict is immense as countries across the world are reeling with a surge in prices of various commodities. But panic was caused when the conflict involved the nuclear plants and concerns were raised over radiation leaks.&nbsp;

On February 24, Russian forces seized the defunct Chernobyl plant, the site of the 1986 disaster that killed hundreds and spread radioactive contamination west across Europe.&nbsp;

After that, Russian forces had attacked Ukraine's Zaporizhzhia NPP, which is Europe's largest nuclear power plant, on March 4. The plant and a five-story training facility building next to it were on fire, which was later extinguished.&nbsp;

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Ukraine has four active nuclear power plants, providing about half the country's electricity, as well as stores of nuclear waste such as the one at Chernobyl.&nbsp;

In the latest development, the United States on Friday (March 11) accused Russia of violating nuclear safety principles in Ukraine. US also demanded its invading forces stop firing on nuclear power plants.&nbsp;

Important to note that there were no signs detected yet of any radiological release.&nbsp;

US Energy Secretary Jennifer Granholm said in a Twitter post that radiation monitors in much of Ukraine were still functioning although the United States was concerned by the lack of data from safeguards monitors at Chernobyl or Zaporizhzhia.&nbsp;

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The conundrum here is, both sites are under Russian forces' control but are being operated by Ukrainian staff in conditions that the International Atomic Energy Agency says endanger the safety of the facilities.

"We remain concerned about Russia’s reckless actions and violations of nuclear safety principles. We are monitoring reports of damage to a research facility in Kharkiv. Near-term safety risk is low, but the continued Russian firing on nuclear facilities must cease," Granholm said.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, Ukraine and its allies are concerned about the risk Russia's invasion poses to nuclear facilities across the country, including power plants and research centres.&nbsp;

'Chernobyl&nbsp;plant still without external power supply'

On Friday (March 10) Ukraine's state nuclear power regulator said that the electricity supply to the Chernobyl nuclear power station had not yet been restored. On the other hand, Russia's energy ministry claimed that it was restored by Belarusian specialists on Thursday.&nbsp;

Ukraine has warned of an increased risk of a radiation leak if the high-voltage power line, damaged in fighting, is not repaired to the plant, which is occupied by Russian forces.&nbsp;

"Attempts to restore the external power supply to the site are in progress," the State Nuclear Regulatory Inspectorate of Ukraine said in a statement. When the external electricity supply is severed, an emergency diesel generator kicks in.&nbsp;

WATCH |&nbsp;WION Ground Report from Brovary: Russian forces bombarded cities across Ukraine

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(With inpusts from agencies)

Ukraine has been under attack after Russian President Vladimir Putin on February 24 ordered his armed forces to carry out a "military operation" in Ukrainian cities.

Ukraine has been under attack after Russian President Vladimir Putin on February 24 ordered his armed forces to carry out a "military operation" in Ukrainian cities. Since then, the conflict has escalated with reports of multiple casualties and massive loss of property. The situation has also led to a refugee crisis as people are fleeing Ukraine to save their lives. The economic impact of the Russia-Ukraine conflict is immense as countries across the world are reeling with a surge in prices of various commodities. But panic was caused when the conflict involved the nuclear plants and concerns were raised over radiation leaks. On February 24, Russian forces seized the defunct Chernobyl plant, the site of the 1986 disaster that killed hundreds and spread radioactive contamination west across Europe. After that, Russian forces had attacked Ukraine's Zaporizhzhia NPP, which is Europe's largest nuclear power plant, on March 4. The plant and a five-story training facility building next to it were on fire, which was later extinguished. IN PICS | Napoleon's Waterloo & Hitler's Barbarossa: 5 lessons Putin can learn from failed war campaigns Ukraine has four active nuclear power plants, providing about half the country's electricity, as well as stores of nuclear waste such as the one at Chernobyl. In the latest development, the United States on Friday (March 11) accused Russia of violating nuclear safety principles in Ukraine. US also demanded its invading forces stop firing on nuclear power plants. Important to note that there were no signs detected yet of any radiological release. US Energy Secretary Jennifer Granholm said in a Twitter post that radiation monitors in much of Ukraine were still functioning although the United States was concerned by the lack of data from safeguards monitors at Chernobyl or Zaporizhzhia. IN PICS | Ukraine war: What weapons are being used in Russia's invasion? The conundrum here is, both sites are under Russian forces' control but are being operated by Ukrainian staff in conditions that the International Atomic Energy Agency says endanger the safety of the facilities. "We remain concerned about Russia’s reckless actions and violations of nuclear safety principles. We are monitoring reports of damage to a research facility in Kharkiv. Near-term safety risk is low, but the continued Russian firing on nuclear facilities must cease," Granholm said. Meanwhile, Ukraine and its allies are concerned about the risk Russia's invasion poses to nuclear facilities across the country, including power plants and research centres. 'Chernobyl plant still without external power supply' On Friday (March 10) Ukraine's state nuclear power regulator said that the electricity supply to the Chernobyl nuclear power station had not yet been restored. On the other hand, Russia's energy ministry claimed that it was restored by Belarusian specialists on Thursday. Ukraine has warned of an increased risk of a radiation leak if the high-voltage power line, damaged in fighting, is not repaired to the plant, which is occupied by Russian forces. "Attempts to restore the external power supply to the site are in progress," the State Nuclear Regulatory Inspectorate of Ukraine said in a statement. When the external electricity supply is severed, an emergency diesel generator kicks in. WATCH | WION Ground Report from Brovary: Russian forces bombarded cities across Ukraine × (With inpusts from agencies)

Russia-Ukraine conflict: Concerns raised over violation of nuclear safety principles in Ukraine

After Ukraine's nuclear power plant was hit, Russia blamed the explosion on Ukrainian "saboteurs" calling it "monstrous provocation".

"Last night on the territory adjacent to the power plant, an attempt was made by the Kyiv nationalist regime to carry out a monstrous provocation," Russia's defence ministry said.

The defence ministry added that the nuclear plant was operating normally and the area was under Russian control since February 28.

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UK foreign secretary Liz Truss called for an urgent meeting of the UNSC after Russian forces attacked the nuclear power plant. The IAEA said the fire at Zaporizhzhia nuclear power plant did not affect "essential" equipment.

However, Russian defence ministry spokesman Igor Konashenkov alleged that "at about 2 am during a patrol of guarded territory adjacent to the Zaporizhzhia nuclear power plant, a mobile patrol of the National Guard came under attack from a Ukrainian sabotage group".

Watch: What next for Putin?

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"To provoke return fire on the building, heavy small arms fire was opened on Russian National Guard servicemen from the windows of several floors of a training complex located outside the power plant," he said.

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According to Igor Konashenkov, the "sabotage group" abandoned the training complex after the Russian patrol group returned fire to suppress the attack as it was set on fire and they left.

The IAEA said the training facility at the nuclear site at Zaporizhzhia which was hit was not part of the plant's reactors. Russia had earlier seized the Chernobyl nuclear plant on February 24.

"Currently, the staff of Zaporizhzhya NPP continues to work as usual, maintains the NPP facilities and monitors the radioactive situation. The radioactive background in the area of the nuclear power plant is normal,” the defence ministry spokesman added.

(With inputs from Agencies)

After Ukraine's nuclear power plant was hit, Russia blamed the explosion on Ukrainian "saboteurs" calling it "monstrous provocation". "Last night on the territory adjacent to the power plant, an attempt was made by the Kyiv nationalist regime to carry out a monstrous provocation," Russia's defence ministry said.

After Ukraine's nuclear power plant was hit, Russia blamed the explosion on Ukrainian "saboteurs" calling it "monstrous provocation". "Last night on the territory adjacent to the power plant, an attempt was made by the Kyiv nationalist regime to carry out a monstrous provocation," Russia's defence ministry said. The defence ministry added that the nuclear plant was operating normally and the area was under Russian control since February 28. Also Read in Pics: What is the chain of command for potential Russian nuclear strikes? UK foreign secretary Liz Truss called for an urgent meeting of the UNSC after Russian forces attacked the nuclear power plant. The IAEA said the fire at Zaporizhzhia nuclear power plant did not affect "essential" equipment. However, Russian defence ministry spokesman Igor Konashenkov alleged that "at about 2 am during a patrol of guarded territory adjacent to the Zaporizhzhia nuclear power plant, a mobile patrol of the National Guard came under attack from a Ukrainian sabotage group". Watch: What next for Putin? "To provoke return fire on the building, heavy small arms fire was opened on Russian National Guard servicemen from the windows of several floors of a training complex located outside the power plant," he said. Also Read in Pics: Russia's hunt for 'drone-killer UAV concept' revealed According to Igor Konashenkov, the "sabotage group" abandoned the training complex after the Russian patrol group returned fire to suppress the attack as it was set on fire and they left. The IAEA said the training facility at the nuclear site at Zaporizhzhia which was hit was not part of the plant's reactors. Russia had earlier seized the Chernobyl nuclear plant on February 24. "Currently, the staff of Zaporizhzhya NPP continues to work as usual, maintains the NPP facilities and monitors the radioactive situation. The radioactive background in the area of the nuclear power plant is normal,” the defence ministry spokesman added. (With inputs from Agencies)

Russia blames Zaporizhzhia nuclear power plant attack on Ukrainian 'saboteurs'

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