Zaporizhzhia Nuclear Plant's Road to Recovery

The Zaporizhzhia nuclear power plant, under Russian control, could be back online months after a ceasefire. Restarting all six reactors may take over a year. The U.N. atomic watchdog highlights ongoing war threats, while U.S. President Trump suggests U.S. involvement in Ukraine's nuclear energy sector.

The Russian-held Zaporizhzhia nuclear power plant in Ukraine may resume operations within months following a ceasefire, but fully restarting its six reactors would likely take over a year, according to the U.N. atomic watchdog chief on Wednesday.

Since Russian forces captured Europe's largest nuclear facility shortly after invading Ukraine, the plant, now at the frontline, has its reactors shut down. It once provided 20% of Ukraine's power. Both Russia and Ukraine have blamed each other for attacks, including shelling and drone strikes, risking catastrophic accidents. These attacks have damaged infrastructure vital to prevent a nuclear meltdown, including power lines and an IAEA vehicle, also sparking a cooling tower fire.

IAEA chief Rafael Grossi stressed the need for a guaranteed ceasefire to progress toward reactivating the plant. Meanwhile, U.S. President Donald Trump advocates for ending the Ukraine conflict and pursuing closer ties with Moscow. While the IAEA focuses on nuclear safety, negotiations around plant control continue amidst geopolitical tensions.

(With inputs from agencies.)