Ministry of Defense: Threat to Latvia Negligible Following Possible Terrorist Attack at Zaporizhzhya Nuclear Power Plant
In response to reports of a possible terrorist attack at the Zaporizhzhya nuclear power plant (NPP) in Russia, the Ministry of Defense in Latvia has emphasized that the threat to Latvia is negligible. The government, in collaboration with responsible authorities, has evaluated various threat scenarios and concluded that Latvia faces minimal risk.
The Zaporizhzhya NPP is located over 1000 kilometers away from Latvia, and it is crucial to note that the NPP reactors are currently not operational. These factors contribute to the assessment that the potential threat to Latvia is insignificant.
To ensure the safety of its citizens, Latvia’s Radiation Safety Center continuously monitors radiation levels and the overall safety situation. In the event of any concerning information, the Radiation Safety Center, in coordination with relevant institutions, will provide the public with recommendations on necessary protective measures.
Latvia’s responsible authorities have also prepared an action plan to address radiation threats and mitigate the potential consequences of such threats. This coordinated response plan aims to safeguard the well-being of the population and prevent any adverse effects.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyi expressed his concerns regarding a possible terrorist attack at the Zaporizhzhya nuclear power plant, which has been under Russian occupation since last spring. Zelenskyi’s statement, shared on social media, highlighted intelligence reports suggesting that Russia is considering a terrorist attack at the NPP, specifically one involving a radiation leak.
The concerns surrounding the Zaporizhzhya NPP have escalated during Russia’s renewed invasion of Ukraine. Recent events, such as the destruction of the Kahovka hydroelectric dam, which provided water for cooling the nuclear plant, have further intensified worries.
Previously, the Zaporizhzhya NPP supplied 20% of Ukraine’s electricity consumption and continued to operate during the initial months of the Russian invasion. However, electricity production ceased in September. Although none of the NPP’s six Soviet-built reactors are currently generating electricity, the facility remains connected to the grid required for cooling purposes.
The Ministry of Defense’s statement provides reassurance to Latvia, emphasizing the negligible threat posed by the possible terrorist attack at the Zaporizhzhya NPP. The government’s evaluation, in collaboration with responsible authorities, aims to ensure the safety and well-being of the Latvian population in the face of potential risks.
(Photo: AFP/Scanpix)
What measures has the Ministry of Defense urged the public to take in response to the potential nuclear incident at the Zaporizhzhya NPP
Uation in the region. The ministry has also stated that they have a well-developed emergency response plan in place which includes measures to address potential nuclear incidents.
Furthermore, Latvia is an active member of international organizations such as the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) and the European Nuclear Safety Regulators Group (ENSREG). These memberships provide access to the latest information and best practices in nuclear safety. Latvia collaborates with these organizations and neighboring countries to strengthen regional nuclear safety and security.
The Ministry of Defense has urged the public to remain calm and rely on official sources of information. It is important to avoid spreading rumors or unverified news, as it can cause unnecessary panic and anxiety among the population. Citizens are also encouraged to follow any instructions or guidelines issued by the authorities.
In conclusion, the Ministry of Defense in Latvia has reassured its citizens that the threat to Latvia following the possible terrorist attack at the Zaporizhzhya NPP is negligible. The government’s evaluation, taking into account the distance from the power plant and the current status of its reactors, supports this assessment. The safety and well-being of its citizens remain a top priority, and Latvia continues to actively monitor the situation and collaborate with international organizations to ensure nuclear safety in the region.
While it is reassuring to hear that the threat to Latvia from a potential terrorist attack at Zaporizhzhya Nuclear Power Plant is considered negligible, it is still important for the Ministry of Defense to remain vigilant and prepared for any unforeseen circumstances. Safety and security should always be prioritized in such critical situations.