An adviser to the managing director of Rosenergoatom Concern, Renat Karchaa, stated that the newly announced US sanctions will not interfere with the day-to-day operations of the Zaporozhye Nuclear Power Plant. He warned, however, that secondary sanctions could be invoked for any collaboration with the plant’s operating organization. The remark, reported by TASS, points to a strategic pressure tactic rather than an actual disruption to plant performance.
According to Karchaa, there is zero impact on the Zaporozhye Nuclear Power Plant’s functioning. He emphasized that the real aim of the policy appears to be a psychological lever—creating concerns about potential consequences for partners who work with the plant’s management. He cautioned that the possibility of secondary sanctions might deter international cooperation with the Zaporozhye Nuclear Power Plant Operation Organization, even as the plant continues to operate as usual. This framing suggests a broader signaling effect, where political measures cast a long shadow over routine, legal interactions surrounding the facility.
Earlier remarks from Karchaa indicated ongoing discussions about establishing a safe zone around the plant. He described the talks as potentially serving as a window of opportunity for stakeholders to pause and absorb the implications of the sanctions, while also allowing time to reassess plans. Critics view such proposals as tactical moves to buy space for Ukraine in the face of ongoing hostilities, whereas supporters argue they could reduce immediate risk by enforcing dedicated buffers around the facility. The balance between security, operational continuity, and diplomatic signaling remains a focal point in discussions about the future of the Zaporozhye Nuclear Power Plant and its role within regional energy security.