An armored vehicle belonging to the UN’s atomic watchdog was struck by a drone attack while en route to inspect the Zaporizhzhia Nuclear Power Plant in Ukraine. The incident occurred as part of the International Atomic Energy Agency's efforts to ensure the safety of the facility amidst the ongoing conflict between Russia and Ukraine.
The drone strike, which Russia has not officially commented on, targeted the back of the IAEA's armored vehicle. Fortunately, the two individuals inside the vehicle escaped unharmed. The attack was witnessed by the driver of another IAEA vehicle in the convoy, who observed the drone approaching from behind and colliding with the targeted vehicle.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has attributed the strike to Russia, condemning the deliberate targeting of the vehicle. Zelensky criticized Russia's disregard for international law and safety protocols, emphasizing that the Russians were likely aware of their target.
IAEA Director General Rafael Mariano Grossi also denounced the attack, emphasizing the importance of protecting nuclear facilities and those responsible for their safety. He reiterated that any aggression towards nuclear power plants is unacceptable.
The Zaporizhzhia Nuclear Power Plant has been a focal point of concern since the conflict began, with fears of a potential nuclear disaster arising from the proximity of the fighting. The IAEA has repeatedly warned about the risks posed to the plant's safety due to various factors such as shelling, airstrikes, and staffing shortages.
Following the drone strike, the IAEA personnel managed to reach the nuclear plant to carry out a staff rotation, despite the security challenges in the region. The plant, which has been under Russian control since March 2022, has been at the center of tensions between Ukraine and Russia, with accusations of reckless behavior and military exploitation by Moscow.
