Ukraine will discuss the de-occupation of the Zaporizhzhia Nuclear Power Plant and enhanced security measures with the IAEA
During a meeting with the Director General of the IAEA, Ukraine will raise the issue of regaining control over the Zaporizhzhia Nuclear Power Plant and stepping up international diplomatic efforts to ensure its safety. This was stated by Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy during a joint press conference with Moldovan President Maia Sandu. The Head of State recalled the events of 2022 and the threats that arose around the Chernobyl Nuclear Power Plant during Russia’s full-scale invasion. “In 2022, during Russia’s full-scale invasion, our Chernobyl Nuclear Power Plant was occupied. It is no secret that various types of terrorist attacks were being planned there at the time. We fought back, liberated our plant, and, I believe, thereby prevented a potential terrorist attack,” Zelenskyy said. According to him, risks to nuclear infrastructure facilities remain due to the ongoing war. The president emphasized that Russia seized the Zaporizhzhia Nuclear Power Plant and used heavy weapons near the power units and administrative buildings. “Six power units of which are not operating today,” he noted. Zelenskyy stressed that the prolonged occupation only increases the risks, which could even exceed the consequences of Chernobyl. The head of state stated that Ukraine is working on international coordination to regain control of the plant. “Today we will meet with IAEA Director General Rafael Grossi to put pressure on all partners… and find an exclusively diplomatic path to ensure the plant is de-occupied peacefully and that management is transferred to Ukraine,” he said. According to the president, if control is restored, Ukraine will be able to guarantee the safe operation of the Zaporizhzhia NPP for people and the environment. Ukraine and the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) signed a memorandum of understanding that provides for enhanced technical support and expanded cooperation in the field of nuclear energy. IAEA Director General Rafael Grossi arrived in Ukraine on the 40th anniversary of the Chernobyl disaster and shared a unique methodology for operating nuclear power plants in wartime conditions. Ukraine and the International Atomic Energy Agency are drafting a document on cooperation in post-war reconstruction and the development of nuclear energy. The project provides for technical support for the construction of new nuclear power plants, the introduction of small modular reactors, and the modernization of equipment. The IAEA has warned of a critical situation at the Zaporizhzhia NPP; the plant is hanging on by a thread The situation at the Zaporizhzhia NPP: Is there a risk of a nuclear disaster?
