G7 nations condemn Russian kidnapping of Ukrainians at Zaporizhzhia, demand return of facility

The U.S. and other G7 nations called on Russia to return the Zaporizhzhia nuclear power plant to Ukrainian control after Russia kidnapped several Ukrainian employees.

"We condemn Russia’s repeated kidnapping of Ukrainian leadership and staff and denounce the application of other forms of pressure on remaining Ukrainian personnel," the G7 announced in a statement. "These actions further impair the nuclear safety and security of the ZNPP [Zaporizhzhia Nuclear Power Plant] by preventing key personnel from executing their indispensable functions.  We strongly reject these reckless, cruel, and dangerous acts and demand the immediate release of those detained." Anders Hagstrom is a reporter with Fox News Digital covering national politics. Send tips to Anders.Hagstrom@Fox.com, or on Twitter: @Hagstrom_Anders

"We urge Russia to immediately return full control of the ZNPP to its rightful sovereign owner, Ukraine, to remove all Russian personnel from the facility, and to stop any attempts to recklessly and dangerously place the ZNPP under Russian administration, which could further jeopardize its safe and secure operations," the statement added.