Zaporizhzhia: Creating a Future While Facing War and Nuclear Dangers.

Most weapons used by Russia in the Ukrainian city of Zaporizhzhia are deadly and include drones and missiles. Another serious threat is the Zaporizhzhia nuclear power plant, which Russian soldiers control but haven't used as a weapon. The nuclear plant used to be the biggest power producer in Europe but was taken over by Russia early in the conflict. Both sides, Russia and Ukraine, have accused each other of attacking the plant.

The city of Zaporizhzhia lives under the constant threat of bombings and potential radiation leaks from the nearby nuclear plant. There, the Associated Press discovered the city's plans to build underground schools as a protective measure. The nuclear power plant has been shut down but still needs careful management to avoid accidents. The International Atomic Energy Agency has closely monitored the situation by keeping staff on site.

A risk remains even with the plant in shutdown because it depends on an external power source that's often targeted by Russian attacks. The power cuts threaten the safety systems that prevent nuclear disasters. Despite modern safety designs at the Zaporizhzhia plant, there is still a risk of serious accidents, similar but not as severe as the Chornobyl disaster.

Due to the war and previous COVID-19 restrictions, many children in Zaporizhzhia haven't attended in-person classes. The construction of new underground schools is underway to provide a safe environment for up to 12,000 students. These bomb-proof and radiation-proof schools are costly, but many international donors and local governments are financially supporting this project.

The current conflict has led to fears of more attacks on nuclear facilities in Ukraine. Ukrainian President Zelenskyy has accused Russia of targeting nuclear sites, and tensions remain high with Russia hinting at the use of nuclear arms if threatened. Despite Zelenskyy's warnings at the U.N., the international community continues to watch closely, concerned about the implications of strikes on more nuclear facilities.