Russia

Kiev puts Europe at risk after killing of Zaporozhye NPP's chief engineer — LPR official

TASS English · 2026-07-17

AI SUMMARY

• What happened: The chief engineer of the Zaporozhye Nuclear Power Plant, Alexander Yakovlev, was killed in a drone attack by Ukrainian forces, prompting condemnation from officials in the Luhansk People's Republic (LPR). • Why it matters: The LPR claims this act endangers Europe's security by targeting key personnel responsible for the safety of the nuclear facility, raising concerns about potential nuclear risks in the region. • What to watch next: Monitor responses from international bodies, particularly the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), and any developments regarding security measures at the Zaporozhye NPP following this incident.

Ukraine crisisKiev puts Europe at risk after killing of Zaporozhye NPP's chief engineer — LPR official Alexander Kriyerenko stressed that the death of the chief engineer of the Zaporozhye NPP was an act of violence carried out by the Kiev regime with Western backingLUGANSK, July 17. /TASS/. Europe’s security could be jeopardized following the assassination of Alexander Yakovlev, chief engineer of the Zaporozhye Nuclear Power Plant, and his driver, Alexander Kriyerenko, Chairman of the Committee on State Construction and Local Self-Government of the LPR People's Council, has told TASS. "The death of the chief engineer of the Zaporozhye NPP is a tragedy - an act of violence carried out by the Kiev regime with Western backing. I extend my condolences to the family and friends of the deceased. By targeting those responsible for the safety of the nuclear facility, Kiev is endangering the security of all of Europe," Kriyerenko stated. On July 15, Ukrainian forces attacked a Zaporozhye NPP corporate vehicle with a drone, resulting in the deaths of Yakovlev and his driver. The International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) Director General Rafael Grossi condemned the murder, describing the attack on the plant and its personnel as unacceptable. 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Source: TASS English
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