News Physics

Russia’s war in Ukraine raises nuclear risks, physicists warn

Experts flag the potential for accidents at seized sites and dangers of an unintended nuclear war

photo of smoke rising from a fire at the Zaporizhzhya nuclear power plant

At the Zaporizhzhya nuclear power plant in southern Ukraine, a fire broke out on March 4 (shown), after the plant came under attack from Russian forces.

Associated Press

By Emily Conover

Russia’s war with Ukraine is heightening nuclear fears on two fronts. Attacks on nuclear facilities have raised concerns about accidents, and threats from Russian President Vladimir Putin have amped up worries over the potential for nuclear warfare.