Hydroelectric Power Stations in Ukraine Under Threat
During a live broadcast on March 26, 2026, expert Oleh Popenko issued a stark warning about the real and present danger of deliberate attacks on Ukraine's hydroelectric power stations and dams, calling for an urgent response. He stressed that local authorities are taking no action to assess the risks, and that up-to-date calculations and disaster response drills are not being conducted in the country. The vulnerability of this critical infrastructure is a major concern for regional security.
The destruction of the Kakhovka Hydroelectric Power Plant serves as a clear example of the massive flooding such attacks can trigger. Since 2022, facilities in the Kharkiv region and near Kryvyi Rih have already been targeted, indicating a rising threat to vital infrastructure. The Kremenchuk and Kamianske reservoirs are particularly vulnerable, as they are essential for the water supply and livelihoods of cities like Cherkasy and Kremenchuk.
An Urgent Call for Action
Popenko also noted that precise calculations for the potential wave height in the event of a dam breach still do not exist. He asserted that developing rescue plans is the duty of the State Emergency Service and regional officials. He emphasized the critical need for training exercises, pointing out that even Soviet-era drills in Kremenchuk led to looting and panic, highlighting the challenges of mass evacuations.
'Beyond President Zelenskyy's statement, there has been zero reaction from local authorities. Zero,' - Oleh Popenko
Oleh Popenko raised further concerns about the potential for cascading strikes: 'What would happen if there were sequential strikes from upstream to downstream? Where would that entire mass of water go, and could the reservoirs and power plants downstream withstand such a volume?' He called for immediate action, asking pointedly, 'In a crisis, will you buy a boat? When the flood comes, will you jump in it, and where will you go?' This underscores the gravity of a situation demanding urgent measures from relevant authorities.
Popenko's statements point to a growing imperative to protect Ukraine's critical infrastructure amid escalating threats. The lack of adequate risk assessments and preparedness drills could lead to catastrophic consequences in the event of attacks or natural disasters. The situation requires immediate mobilization by local authorities and the State Emergency Service to ensure public safety and prevent potential tragedy.
As concerns about the safety of Ukraine's dams rise, it's crucial to recognize the broader implications for urban infrastructure. Recent warnings from experts indicate that cities like Kyiv may face significant challenges during emergencies, particularly in terms of sanitation and preparedness for blackouts. This contrast with Dnipro's readiness highlights the urgent need for comprehensive disaster response strategies. For more insights on how cities are managing these risks, read about the potential sanitation crisis in Kyiv.