Zaporizhzhia nuclear power plant operating on sole remaining main power line

The Russian-held Zaporizhzhia nuclear power plant in southeastern Ukraine is operating on its sole remaining outside power line after losing a backup line more than a week ago, the U.N.'s nuclear watchdog said on Thursday.



In a statement, Rafael Grossi, director general of the International Atomic Energy Agency, said the Ferrosplavna-1 electric line went down on February 10 "reportedly as a result of military activity".



The plant, Europe's largest with six reactors, was now operating with outside power only from the Dniprovska power line, he said.



The plant, captured by Russian forces in the first weeks of Moscow's invasion of Ukraine, generates no electricity but needs power to keep nuclear material cool and prevent a meltdown.



Russia and Ukraine routinely accuse each other of military activity near the plant that could endanger nuclear safety.