Lithuanian President Gitanas Nausėda has called for increased international pressure on Russia and the imposition of sanctions against the state corporation Rosatom. His remarks were made on the anniversary of the Chernobyl nuclear disaster.
Nausėda emphasized that decades after the catastrophic event, the world is once again facing risks associated with nuclear energy. He stated, “From Zaporizhzhia to Chernobyl and Astravets, Russia is using nuclear energy as a weapon through occupation, attacks, and damage to nuclear facilities.”
The president urged decisive international action, stressing the need to prevent a repetition of similar disasters. He concluded, “We must urgently take more resolute international measures. We should not allow history to repeat itself. Impose sanctions against Rosatom.”
In related comments, Ukrainian Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha noted that due to ongoing attacks on energy infrastructure, Ukrainian nuclear power plants have been forced to operate under critical conditions, sometimes reducing output or shutting down reactors. He also reported sightings of Russian drones over the facilities.
Sybiha highlighted that these circumstances pose a risk of a nuclear incident for Europe, reiterating Ukraine’s calls for stronger sanctions against Rosatom and enhanced air defense systems to protect energy infrastructure.
Lithuanian President Gitanas Nausėda has called for sanctions against Rosatom, emphasizing the risks of nuclear energy in light of ongoing conflicts. Ukrainian officials have echoed these concerns, highlighting the precarious situation of their nuclear facilities amid military actions.