The International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) has raised concerns about the safety situation at Ukraine's Zaporizhzhia Nuclear Power Plant following a drone strike on a nearby road. The plant, which has been under Russian control since March 2022, reported that a drone struck just outside the protected area near essential cooling water sprinkler ponds and the power line supplying the plant.
The IAEA Director General expressed extreme concern over the escalating nuclear safety and security dangers facing the plant and called for maximum restraint from all sides. While there were no casualties or damaged equipment from the drone strike, the road between the main gates of the plant was affected.
Both Russia and Ukraine have blamed each other for previous incidents at the plant, with recent reports of heavy military activity in the area. Last weekend, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky accused Russian forces of starting a fire at the plant, while Russian officials pointed fingers at Ukraine.
The IAEA highlighted the vulnerability of nuclear facilities in conflict zones, emphasizing that they are not designed to withstand direct military attacks. The agency also reported air raid alarms and drone attacks at other nuclear power plants in Ukraine, including Chernobyl.
IAEA Director General Grossi expressed willingness to visit the Zaporizhzhia plant and was also invited to the Kursk Nuclear Power Plant in Russia. Amidst growing tensions, concerns have been raised about a potential nuclear provocation, with accusations and counter-accusations between Russia and Ukraine.
