MOSCOW: Russia’s nuclear agency Rosatom warned on Saturday that Ukraine’s recent cross-border offensive poses a “direct threat” to the Kursk nuclear power plant, situated less than 50 kilometers (30 miles) from the conflict zone.
The alarm was raised following a surprise attack by Ukrainian forces into Russia’s Kursk region earlier this week. According to Rosatom, the proximity of the Ukrainian advance to the nuclear facility has raised serious concerns about potential attacks or provocations that could jeopardize the plant’s safety.
“The actions of the Ukrainian army pose a direct threat to the Kursk nuclear power plant,” Rosatom stated, emphasizing that there is now a significant risk of strikes and provocations by Ukrainian troops.
In response to the incursion, Russia has launched a “counter-terror operation” across three border regions—Belgorod, Bryansk, and Kursk. This move aims to counter what Moscow describes as an “unprecedented attempt” by Ukraine to destabilize the region and conduct acts of terrorism.
The offensive by Ukrainian units, which began on Tuesday morning, marks one of the most significant cross-border attacks since the onset of the conflict between Russia and Ukraine. Ukrainian forces reportedly stormed across the border into Russia’s Kursk region, advancing several kilometers.
In response, Russia has mobilized additional troops, including tanks, rocket launchers, and aviation units, to halt the advance. The national anti-terrorism committee has invoked emergency powers, which include restricted movement, vehicle seizures, phone monitoring, and enhanced security at critical infrastructure sites.
The anti-terrorism committee described Ukraine’s actions as a “terrorist attack” and accused Kyiv’s troops of causing civilian casualties and destroying residential buildings. The committee’s statement reflects the heightened state of tension and urgency in the region.
Ukrainian officials have yet to comment extensively on the operation, and the United States, a close ally of Ukraine, stated that it was not informed of the plans in advance. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has indicated that the assault is part of a broader strategy to make Russia “feel” the consequences of its ongoing military actions against Ukraine.
