Moscow-installed authorities in Zaporizhzhia region propose ceasefire around nuclear plant

The Moscow-installed authorities in Ukraine’s southern Zaporizhzhia region have proposed declaring a ceasefire around the Zaporizhzhia Nuclear Power Plant (NPP). Both Ukraine and Russia have accused each other of shelling near the plant, prompting international calls to demilitarize the surrounding area.

Speaking to RIA Novosti on Monday, August 15, Vladimir Rogov, an official in the Russian-installed regional administration, said that United Nations and the European Union should call for a ceasefire, rather than demilitarization.

On August 11, UN Secretary General António Guterres called for a halt to any military action near the Zaporizhzhia NPP, the withdrawal of military personnel and equipment from the plant, and the creation of a “safe demilitarization perimeter.” The proposal to create a demilitarized zone around the plant, in particular, was supported by the U.S. State Department and Josep Borrell, EU foreign policy chief.

During a war, it is impossible to immediately verify the information disseminated by all parties.

Zaporizhzhia NPP is the largest nuclear power plant in Europe. Russian troops have controlled the plant since March. Since the beginning of August it has been shelled more than once. Ukraine and Russia have blamed each other for the shelling. The G7 have called on Moscow to immediately return control of the plant to Kiev, an appeal that was supported by 35 other countries.