Russia-Ukraine: Zelensky Condemns Russia Nuclear Blackmailing

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has accused Russia of using nuclear blackmail at the Zaporizhzhia nuclear power plant.

During his late Saturday address, Zelensky said Russia had engaged in constant provocations by firing on the plant and said forces stationed there had used it as a base to shell the cities of Nikopol and Marhanets.

"This was being done to blackmail our state and the entire free world. Russian blackmail only mobilises even more global efforts to confront terror.

"Every Russian soldier who either shoots at the plant or shoots under the cover of the plant must understand that he is becoming a special target for our intelligence, for our special services, for our army."

Russia invaded Ukraine on 24 February, seizing the plant within days and as kept Ukrainian personnel to operate the facility.

Russia has repeatedly denied any wrongdoing at the plant. It says it seized control of the plant to prevent leaks of radioactive materials during fighting in the region.

But a BBC investigation revealed earlier this week that many of the Ukrainian workers at the site are being kept under armed guard amid harsh conditions.

The UN has also warned that continued hostilities around the station could lead to a nuclear disaster affecting much of Europe.