President of Ukraine Volodymyr Zelenskyy visited Khmelnytskyi Nuclear Power Plant (KhNPP) to hear a report on the construction of the third power unit and hold a meeting on the country’s energy security.
As the President’s press service reported on Thursday, 13 February, Zelenskyy stressed the critical role of nuclear power for the stable operation of Ukraine’s energy system, especially in the face of Russia’s constant attacks.
“Today, nuclear power is the real basis for the fact that Ukraine has light, electricity, and life. And this is very important. This is what, I believe, has preserved our country, especially during these three difficult winters,” the President said.
According to him, the completion of two power units at KhNPP will generate an additional 2 GW of electricity, which corresponds to the current deficit in the power grid.
“These 2 gigawatts are stable light, stable electricity. And in peacetime – it will definitely be there – it will allow us to support business,” Zelensky added.
During the meeting, Energy Minister Herman Galushchenko presented plans for the development of nuclear power, and Acting Commander of the Air Force of the Armed Forces of Ukraine Anatoliy Krivonozhko reported on measures to strengthen the protection of critical infrastructure.
In addition, the heads of Khmelnytskyi and Rivne NPPs, Serhii Tyurin and Oleksandr Koval, spoke about steps to improve NPP safety in the regions.
The Ukrainian government has previously stated that the development of nuclear power is a key priority to ensure the country’s energy independence.
