DISINFO: Ukraine plans to destroy another hydroelectric power station to blame Russia
SUMMARY
Ukraine mined the Kremenchuk hydroelectric power station in order to carry out a provocation against Russia in line with the Kakhovka scenario.
RESPONSE
Conspiracy theory and recurrent pro-Kremlin narrative about a Ukrainian provocation involving a false flag attack to undermine Russia.
There is no evidence that Ukraine is preparing any attacks against its own infrastructure.
Accusing others of “false flag operations” and “setups” to increase tensions or cover Russia’s own illicit actions is a frequently-used pro-Kremlin disinformation technique. Russian authorities and pro-Kremlin outlets frequently make these claims even if nothing emerges afterwards, aiming to reinforce the narrative that Russia is constantly the victim of such operations.
At the moment, all Ukrainian hydroelectric power plants are completing preparations for the winter period. In the context of Russian air attacks on Ukrainian infrastructure, special attention is paid to the security of power stations. All hydroelectric power stations, including the Kremenchuk one, are actively preparing for possible Russian air strikes.
The Nova Kakhovka dam was captured by Russia at the start of the invasion of Ukraine in February 2022 and has been held by it ever since. The evidence suggests it was blown up from within. The circumstances of the the destruction of the station are investigated by the United States, the United Kingdom, the UN Commission and the International Criminal Court. Ukraine not only initiated investigations, but also fully cooperated with independent experts, providing full access to the affected areas, witnesses, all information and evidence. Russia does not allow a independent experts, observers or humanitarian workers into the territory of the former Kakhovka hydroelectric power station.