The Intelligence from The Economist A whole other kettle of fission: Ukraine’s imperilled nuclear plant
Nov 23, 2022
Wendell Stevenson, an experienced journalist for The Economist, provides expert insights into the precarious situation at Ukraine's Zaporizhzhia nuclear power plant, highlighting the dangers of military occupation and the potential for catastrophic incidents. He discusses the strategic importance of the facility and the dire conditions for personnel amid intense conflict. Additionally, the conversation touches on the booming sportswear industry and how changing dynamics are reshaping iconic brands. The episode even dips into the intriguing evolution of teenage characters in horror films.
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Nuclear Plant on the Front Line
- The Zaporizhzhia nuclear power plant, Europe's largest, is occupied by Russian forces and sits precariously on the front lines of the war.
- Russia aims to control it, both technically and administratively, but has largely failed.
Plant as a Military Base
- Russia uses the plant as a military base, exploiting Ukrainian reluctance to shell the sensitive area.
- Simultaneously, they shell Ukrainian positions across the Dnipro River, prompting Ukrainian counter-fire.
Intimidation of Plant Workers
- Russian forces have detained and intimidated around 1,000 plant employees and Enohadar residents.
- This violent intimidation threatens the plant's operational safety and staff morale.