Ukraine (MNN) — The Chernobyl nuclear site lost power yesterday amid a Russian invasion of Ukraine. Scientists say the power loss will not result in the release of radiation from the site.
But that’s not the only nuclear concern during the invasion.
Friday morning, Russian artillery fire hit the Zaporizhzhia nuclear plant. A fire started, triggering panic about a possible nuclear disaster. Thankfully, the reactors suffered no damage. The explosion and fire took place at a training center, away from the reactors.
A disaster avoided
Experts say the resulting disaster would have emitted more radioactive material than the 1986 Chernobyl incident. Eric Mock with the Slavic Gospel Association says, “The radiation from Chernobyl was detected all over the world, and it rendered large portions of southern Belarus as well as the northern parts of Ukraine just unlivable.”
“You walk into these old villages and trees are growing through windows. The homes and businesses that used to be there are nothing more than rubble.”
Russian forces have since taken control of the Zaporizhzhia reactors as well. Ukraine has several operating nuclear fission reactors scattered around the country. Mock says, “To control these reactors is to control the power grid. So you can see the advantage from a military point of view.”
Local Pastors
Mock says pastors in the surrounding areas continued serving those in need and proclaiming the Gospel. “They said they are pressing on, despite the fear that the reactor could go off. They are pressing on, they are taking aid to people.”
Praise God for their faithfulness. And pray for peace in Ukraine.
You can also help SGA send aid to Ukrainian churches. Mock says, “Day after day, we’re receiving pictures of people receiving aid, receiving hope, hearing the Gospel.”
The header photo shows the Chernobyl nuclear site in the distance. (Photo courtesy of Jason Minshull, Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons)
