Economist Podcasts Plant of attack: Ukraine’s occupied nuclear-power station
Aug 22, 2022
Shashank Joshi, the Defense editor for The Economist, sheds light on the grave situation at the Zaporizhia nuclear power plant, occupied by Russian forces amidst the Ukraine conflict. He discusses urgent diplomatic efforts to prevent disaster and the struggles of Ukrainian staff. The conversation also touches on the deadly impact of Britain's recent heatwave and the importance of social capital in enhancing upward mobility among different socio-economic classes.
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Nuclear Shield Tactic
- Russia uses Zaporizhia nuclear plant as a military base, firing on Ukrainian positions across the Dnipro River.
- This tactic exploits Ukraine's inability to return fire without risking a nuclear disaster.
Zaporizhia's Main Risk
- The biggest risk at Zaporizhia isn't a Chernobyl-like meltdown, but rather the disruption of cooling systems for spent fuel.
- Loss of power and shelling of diesel generators could lead to radioactive emissions.
Russia's Power Grab
- Russia might disconnect Zaporizhia from Ukraine's grid to redirect power to Russia, creating an energy crisis.
- This escalation could be a show of force amid Ukrainian counterattacks and the upcoming invasion's six-month anniversary.
