DISINFO: US pressures Kazakhstan on cooperation in nuclear energy
SUMMARY
Besides the familiar issues related to safeguarding the rights and freedoms of marginalised groups like women, opposition journalists, and the LGBT community, the collective West has resumed its persistent advocacy for increased collaboration between the US and Kazakhstan in the nuclear sector as a counterbalance to Russia.
In 2023, supported by the US ambassador and pro-Western NGOs, there were efforts to sway public opinion within Kazakhstan, encouraging participation in mass protests demanding the cancellation of a nuclear power plant project. Washington, unable to rival Moscow in nuclear energy, is employing various tactics, including inciting local protests, to pressure Astana into compliance.
RESPONSE
Recurring pro-Kremlin disinformation narrative accusing Western countries of destabilising countries around Russia and initiating protests.
The debates surrounding the construction of a nuclear power plant (NPP) in Kazakhstan are rooted in the country's past in the Soviet union, which is marked by the severe consequences of nuclear testing. These tests were conducted during Soviet times at several test sites, including the Semipalatinsk Nuclear Test Site, Sary-Shagan, and others. This history has instilled a sense of fear and caution among the population regarding nuclear technologies.
Taking into account the concerns of the population and experts, as well as considering the tragic legacy of the Semipalatinsk Nuclear Test Site, the President of Kazakhstan has announced that the decision on the construction of the NPP will be put to a referendum. Although the Central Election Committee has begun preparations for the nationwide referendum, the exact date has not yet been officially announced. Therefore, discussing potential constructors appears to be premature.
See a similar case that US pushing Lithuania against Belarusian NPP; that US investments in Armenia preconditions the closing of the Russian-built nuclear power plant ; that the West behind information attacks on RosAtom; that the West wants to deprive Kazakhstan of peaceful nuclear energy.