Africa News 24 Pretoria Bureau
VIENNA, Austria – The International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) has issued a fresh warning regarding the precarious situation of nuclear facilities in Ukraine as the ongoing conflict continues to pose significant risks. In a statement released by IAEA Director General Rafael Mariano Grossi, the agency reaffirmed its commitment to monitoring the safety and security of Ukraine’s nuclear infrastructure while urging all parties involved to exercise restraint and comply with international safety protocols.
IAEA director general’s visit to Ukraine
In a recent development, Director General Grossi announced plans to visit Ukraine’s Zaporizhzhia Nuclear Power Plant (ZNPP) to assess the facility’s safety and security amidst growing concerns. This will mark his fourth visit to the ZNPP since the conflict began. Prior to visiting the plant, Grossi is scheduled to hold high-level discussions in Kyiv on Tuesday, February 4, 2025.
In a previous visit on September 3, 2024, Director General Grossi met with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy to discuss the security situation at the ZNPP and the broader implications of the conflict on nuclear safety. During this meeting, President Zelenskyy mentioned the critical need for the plant’s demilitarisation and the restoration of Ukrainian control to prevent potential nuclear incidents.
The IAEA continues to play a pivotal role in monitoring nuclear safety in Ukraine, with Grossi’s visits underscoring the agency’s commitment to addressing the challenges posed by the ongoing conflict.
IAEA’s continued monitoring and support
The IAEA has maintained a presence at the ZNPP, Europe’s largest nuclear facility, which has been at the centre of growing concerns since its occupation early in the war. The agency has called for the establishment of a nuclear safety and security protection zone around the plant, stressing that military activity in the vicinity of nuclear facilities must cease immediately.
“We continue to work tirelessly to monitor the situation and provide independent, technical assessments,” said Grossi. “Our experts are on the ground to ensure that nuclear safety measures are upheld and that we minimise the risk of a nuclear accident.”
The IAEA has also reiterated its readiness to provide technical assistance and support to Ukraine, highlighting the importance of cooperation in preventing nuclear risks. The agency is actively engaging with both Ukrainian and Russian authorities to ensure compliance with safety protocols and international nuclear standards.
IAEA concerned over energy security and radioactive materials
Beyond the safety risks, the conflict has also raised concerns over Ukraine’s energy security. Nuclear power constitutes a significant portion of Ukraine’s energy supply, and the ongoing instability has disrupted operations at various facilities. The IAEA has urged for the safe and reliable operation of nuclear plants to ensure that millions of civilians continue to receive electricity.
More from Africa News 24
Ukraine war: Deepest Ukraine drone attack into Russian territory injures 12
Additionally, there are concerns about the security of radioactive materials used in medical and industrial applications. The IAEA has warned that such materials, if mishandled or accessed by unauthorised groups, could pose serious radiological threats.
IAEA urges international community to act
The IAEA has called upon the international community to support efforts to uphold nuclear safety in Ukraine. The agency stressed that preventing a nuclear crisis requires global cooperation, with nations and organisations working together to ensure the security of Ukraine’s nuclear sites.
As the war continues, the IAEA remains committed to providing updates and assessments on the evolving nuclear situation in Ukraine. The agency has urged all parties to respect international nuclear safety agreements and avoid actions that could escalate the risks associated with the conflict.
