US Warns Russia Against Handling American Nuclear Technology at Zaporizhzhia Plant

The US Department of Energy issued a warning to Russia's state-owned nuclear energy firm Rosatom regarding sensitive US nuclear technology at the Zaporizhzhia Nuclear Power Plant in Ukraine. The letter, dated March 17, 2023, states that the plant contains US-origin nuclear technical data subject to US export controls.

These controls apply because the technology could undermine US national security interests if misused.

The Zaporizhzhia plant, located in Enerhodar in the Zaporizhzhia region, is the largest nuclear power station in Europe. Russian forces have controlled the facility since occupying the area after their invasion of Ukraine in February 2022.

US Export Controls and Legal Restrictions The Department of Energy's letter specifies that it is unlawful under US law for non-authorized persons, including Russian citizens and entities such as Rosatom and its subsidiaries, to access, possess, or manipulate the technology.

The letter was sent by the director of the Energy Department’s Office of Nonproliferation Policy. It emphasizes that no authorization has been granted for transfer to Russian nationals or entities. A separate letter from the same office to the Energy Department’s Inspector General, dated October 24, 2022, outlines the specific US-exported technology used at the plant.

This earlier communication confirms the absence of any current authorization for Russian involvement. The US has previously supported the plant's maintenance and operations to enhance Ukraine's energy security. The plant has faced repeated disconnections from Ukraine’s power grid due to shelling in the surrounding area.

These incidents have raised concerns about potential nuclear accidents across Europe.

Background on US Support and Russian Control The US Office of Nuclear Energy noted in June 2021 that it helped implement new maintenance procedures at the Zaporizhzhia reactors.

This assistance aimed to strengthen energy security in Ukraine. However, the ongoing conflict has complicated operations at the site. > "It is unlawful under United States law for non-authorized persons, including, but not limited to, Russian citizens and Russian entities, such as Rosatom and its subsidiaries, to knowingly and willfully access, possess, control...