Belarus Proposes New Nuclear Plant to Supply Russian-Occupied Ukraine
Belarusian President Alexander Lukashenko has proposed building a new nuclear power plant on Belarusian territory to supply electricity to Russian-occupied territories in Ukraine. The proposal was made during a meeting with Russian President Vladimir Putin on September 26, 2025, and has sparked international concern and debate.
Details of the Proposal
According to reports, Lukashenko stated that if a decision is made, construction would immediately begin on a new power unit or station to meet electricity needs in western Russia and the "liberated regions," using the Kremlin's terminology for Ukrainian territories occupied by Russia, including Kherson, Zaporizhzhia, Luhansk, and Donetsk.
Putin responded that financing would not be an issue if there is a consumer willing to pay the required tariff, though he did not explicitly confirm direct Russian funding for the project. Discussions are reportedly ongoing to determine the optimal location for the plant, potentially a third unit at the existing plant in Ostrovets or a new site in eastern Belarus.
Geopolitical Implications and International Reaction
The proposal underscores the deepening ties between Belarus and Russia. While Belarus has not directly participated in the full-scale invasion of Ukraine, it has supported Russian troop movements and allowed its territory to be used as a staging ground. This new initiative raises concerns about Belarus's complicity in the conflict and its increasing dependence on Moscow.
"By proposing that Putin build a second nuclear power plant in Belarus to supply electricity to occupied territories in Ukraine, Lukashenko once again proves he is complicit in Russian aggression. He is trading Belarusian sovereignty for power and profits from war crimes." - Sviatlana Tsikhanouskaya, exiled leader of Belarus' opposition
Sviatlana Tsikhanouskaya, the exiled leader of the Belarusian opposition, condemned the proposal, stating that it puts "all of Europe at risk" and accusing Lukashenko of trading Belarusian sovereignty for profit.
Belarus's Existing Nuclear Infrastructure
Belarus already operates one nuclear power plant in Astravets, which was launched in November 2020. This plant, built by Rosatom, the Russian state atomic energy corporation, and financed by a $10 billion loan from Moscow, has been a source of controversy. Neighboring Lithuania, located just 40 kilometers from the plant, has expressed strong safety concerns.
Potential Strategic Benefits for Russia
For Russia, a new nuclear plant in Belarus that supplies electricity to occupied territories in Ukraine represents a strategic advantage. It would provide a reliable energy supply to these regions and further solidify Russia's control. However, questions remain regarding the financing of the project and whether the occupied regions have the economic capacity and infrastructure to pay for the electricity.
