The IAEA is deeply concerned about the widespread appearance of drones near Ukrainian nuclear power plants
The International Atomic Energy Agency has recorded a significant increase in drone activity in areas surrounding Ukrainian nuclear facilities. Over 160 drones were spotted near the plants on May 13 and 14.
The IAEA reported this on social media.
Particularly high activity was observed in the vicinity of the South Ukraine, Rivne, and Chernobyl nuclear power plants. Although no direct impact on nuclear safety has been recorded so far, Director General Rafael Grossi expressed deep concern over the intensity of these military activities. The agency’s head emphasized that drone flights in the immediate vicinity of power units pose a serious risk of a nuclear accident and require immediate restraint.
Grossi once again called for strict adherence to the seven fundamental principles of nuclear safety during armed conflict. The constant presence of aerial attack assets in the security zones of nuclear power plants increases the likelihood of technical incidents or accidental strikes on critical infrastructure. The IAEA continues to monitor the situation through its missions stationed at Ukrainian plants.
The IAEAwarns of an increased risk of a nuclear disaster.
The Zaporizhzhia NPP recorded its 15th blackout since the start of the occupation.
Earlier, the Zaporizhzhia Nuclear Power Plant resumed operations on Ukraine’s power grid after a one-and-a-half-hour interruption in external power supply.
The IAEA warns of a critical situation at the ZNPP; the plant is hanging on by a thread
