Russia accuses Ukraine of drone strike on nuclear plant as Kyiv marks Independence Day
New Delhi, Aug 24: Russia on Sunday accused Ukraine of targeting a nuclear power plant in its western Kursk region, even as Ukrainians marked Independence Day with flag-raising ceremonies in Kyiv and international expressions of support, reports BBC. Russian officials said a Ukrainian drone struck the plant overnight, damaging a transformer and sparking a fire that was later extinguished. No casualties were reported and radiation levels remained normal, according to a statement on the plant’s Telegram channel. Ukraine has not commented on the allegation. The Kursk region was the scene of a brief Ukrainian counteroffensive last year.
The incident came as the UN’s nuclear watchdog, the IAEA, renewed calls for both sides to exercise restraint around nuclear facilities, warning of the risks of escalation.
In Kyiv, President Volodymyr Zelensky presided over Independence Day celebrations marking 34 years since Ukraine declared independence from the Soviet Union. Britain pledged continued support, with Defence Secretary John Healey announcing an extension of Operation Interflex, the UK-led training programme for Ukrainian soldiers, until the end of 2026. Ukrainian flags were also raised above Downing Street in London in solidarity.
On the battlefield, Russia claimed its forces had captured two villages in Ukraine’s eastern Donetsk region. Moscow’s troops have made slow and costly advances, now holding roughly one-fifth of Ukraine’s territory since launching the full-scale invasion in 2022. The attack and counterclaims come against a backdrop of stalled diplomacy. US President Donald Trump met Russian President Vladimir Putin in Alaska earlier this month, but despite declaring the summit “a success”, Trump has since voiced frustration at the lack of progress. Zelensky has urged an unconditional ceasefire, while accusing Russia of blocking efforts for direct talks. Moscow insists it is ready for a summit only when an agenda is agreed, accusing Kyiv of refusing meaningful negotiations.
