This is reported by RBK-Ukraine referring to an article by Dr. Stephen Blank, a senior research fellow at the Foreign Policy Research Institute. This information is also shared by Kontrakty.UA.
According to the expert, Kremlin propagandists claim that power units No. 3 and No. 4 of the Khmelnytskyi NPP will be dangerous when using American nuclear fuel from Westinghouse. However, Westinghouse itself has confirmed the safety of reactor operations on American fuel and the feasibility of installing equipment at the Khmelnytskyi NPP after extensive evaluations. The process is expected to proceed with technical support from Westinghouse.
Blank also points out that the Kremlin is spreading disinformation suggesting that Ukraine supposedly does not need new large power units and that there are not enough trained specialists in the country to operate them. According to Blank, both statements are unfounded. He emphasizes that Ukraine has over 5,000 highly qualified nuclear professionals who can ensure the safe operation of the plant.
"Ukraine critically needs new energy capacities due to Russian attacks on its energy system. Completing the Khmelnytskyi NPP will help offset losses and reduce dependence on electricity imports, allowing Ukraine to become a net exporter," the expert notes.
Blank stresses that this case is part of a broader hybrid war that Russia is waging in Europe, and that the Bulgarian parliament must counter Russian influence by facilitating the transfer of reactors to Ukraine.