The Zaporizhzhia power plant in Russian-occupied Ukraine is facing a growing nuclear safety crisis, as the head of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) warns of deteriorating conditions following a drone strike near the facility.
Rafael Grossi, head of the IAEA, expressed “extreme concern” over the situation and called for “maximum restraint from all sides” to protect the plant. The impact of the strike was near essential water sprinkler ponds and close to the only remaining high-voltage line, raising fears of potential damage to critical infrastructure.
The plant, which was seized by Russia’s forces early in the war, has been the target of repeated attacks, with both sides blaming each other for the escalating violence. Last week, a fire broke out in one of the plant’s cooling towers, sparking further tensions between Kyiv and Moscow.
The IAEA team stationed at Zaporizhzhia reported that the damage from the drone strike appeared to have been caused by an explosive device. The agency noted ongoing explosions, heavy machine gun and rifle fire, and artillery in the vicinity of the plant, highlighting the volatile security situation in the area.
With all six reactors at the plant in cold shutdown for over two years, the risk of a nuclear incident is a major concern. Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine in February 2022 has only added to the uncertainty, with ongoing clashes and territorial gains in eastern Ukraine.
Despite recent setbacks, Ukrainian forces have managed to penetrate into Russian territory, disrupting enemy logistics and consolidating positions in the Kursk region. Thousands of Russians have been evacuated from the area, as the conflict shows no signs of abating.
As tensions continue to escalate, the international community is closely monitoring the situation at the Zaporizhzhia power plant, recognizing the urgent need for de-escalation and efforts to safeguard nuclear safety in the region.
