The International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) has raised alarm over the deteriorating safety situation at Ukraine’s Zaporizhzhia nuclear power plant, following a nearby blast. The IAEA team stationed at the plant reported hearing multiple explosions and witnessing dark smoke rising from the northwestern area of the facility. According to initial reports, a drone struck one of the plant’s cooling towers, causing significant damage. Fortunately, the plant’s operators confirmed that no radioactive material was released, and there is no risk of elevated radiation levels.
Despite this, the IAEA has expressed grave concern over the incident, emphasizing that military actions against the plant violate fundamental safety principles and endanger nuclear safety. The agency has requested immediate access to the site to assess the damage and provide assistance in mitigating any potential risks. The IAEA team is working closely with Ukrainian authorities to ensure the plant’s safe operation and prevent any potential nuclear accidents.
The Zaporizhzhia nuclear power plant, located in southeastern Ukraine, is Europe’s largest nuclear power station and has been occupied by Russian forces since March 2022. The ongoing conflict has raised concerns about the plant’s safety, with repeated shelling and nearby fighting causing alarm among international authorities. The IAEA has been working to maintain a presence at the plant, providing technical support and monitoring the situation to prevent a nuclear catastrophe.
