The Zaporizhzhia nuclear power plant in Ukraine is on the brink of a catastrophic accident due to recent attacks, the head of the UN nuclear watchdog agency has warned. The International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) chief, Rafael Grossi, stated that it is “impossible” to determine the perpetrators of the attacks, which have been blamed on both Russia and Ukraine.
The largest nuclear power facility in Europe, Zaporizhzhia has been under Russian occupation since the invasion began in February 2022. The plant has been shut down since then due to frequent shelling attacks, but it has recently come under direct assault through drone attacks.
Grossi emphasized the urgent need for the attacks to cease, as they have significantly increased the risk of a radiological incident at the plant. He highlighted the dangerous precedent set by the attacks, particularly as the reactor confinement structure was hit.
The IAEA chief expressed concern over the compromised nuclear safety and security at the plant, warning that the risk of a nuclear accident is imminent. Despite the reactors being turned off, the threat of a major incident remains real.
The situation at Zaporizhzhia serves as a stark reminder of the devastating consequences of conflict on critical infrastructure. The international community must act swiftly to prevent a potential nuclear disaster and ensure the safety of the plant and surrounding areas.