**Russia Refuses to Hand Over Control of Zaporizhzhia Nuclear Power Plant**
Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov has rejected the idea of any changes to the management of the Russian-occupied Zaporizhzhia Nuclear Power Plant (ZNPP). In an interview with CBS News on April 26, Lavrov said that Russia never received such an offer and would not consider it even if they did.
According to Lavrov, the power plant is currently run by the Russian Federation state corporation Rosatom, and its safety requirements are fully implemented. He also claimed that the plant is under permanent monitoring by International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) personnel. When asked about a reported proposal for U.S. management of the ZNPP, Lavrov responded firmly, “No, I don’t think any change is conceivable.”
The proposal in question involves returning control over the ZNPP to Ukraine before transferring its management to the U.S. to supply electricity to areas under both Ukrainian and Russian control. However, Russia’s refusal to consider this option means that the plant will remain under their control.
**Background on the Zaporizhzhia Nuclear Power Plant**
The Zaporizhzhia nuclear power plant is located in the city of Enerhodar in Zaporizhzhia Oblast, which remains under Russian occupation. Despite not being under Ukrainian control, the facility has been repeatedly disconnected from Ukraine’s power grid due to Russian attacks on the country’s energy infrastructure.
**Russia Justifies Missile Strikes on Kyiv**
In the same interview, Lavrov justified recent Russian missile strikes on Kyiv, claiming they targeted military sites. He said that Russia would continue to target sites used by Ukrainian forces, foreign mercenaries, and European instructors.
This comes just days after a large-scale Russian missile and drone attack on Kyiv took place on April 24, killing 12 people and injuring almost 90.
**Commentary**
Russia’s refusal to hand over control of the Zaporizhzhia Nuclear Power Plant is a significant development in the ongoing conflict. The plant’s location and status are highly sensitive due to its potential for catastrophic consequences if not properly managed.
Lavrov’s response suggests that Russia will continue to prioritize their control over the facility, even if it means disregarding international proposals and potentially risking nuclear safety. This decision has serious implications for Ukraine and Europe as a whole.
**Analysis**
The situation surrounding the Zaporizhzhia Nuclear Power Plant highlights the complexities of the conflict between Russia and Ukraine. The plant’s status is not just an issue of territorial control but also one of nuclear safety, international cooperation, and energy security.
Russia’s refusal to consider alternative management proposals raises questions about their willingness to engage in constructive dialogue and prioritize regional stability. As tensions continue to escalate, it remains to be seen how this situation will unfold and what the consequences will be for Ukraine and Europe.
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