IAEA Chief Calls Zaporizhzhia Nuclear Site Fragile

Rafael Mariano Grossi, head of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), has labeled the situation at the Zaporizhzhia Nuclear Power Plant as 'very fragile' following recent attacks that damaged its power supply. This marks Grossi's 10th visit to Ukraine since the onset of the war in February 2022, and he is focused on preventing potential nuclear accidents. The plant, which has been under Russian control since March 2022, is at risk of blackouts due to shelling that has impacted its external power lines, raising concerns over cooling and overall safety. Despite the heightened threat, analysts suggest that any radiation release would be localized and not comparable to the 1986 Chernobyl disaster. Grossi has announced that IAEA inspections will expand to cover critical electricity supplies to bolster safety measures. He also discussed the broader implications of Russian attacks on Ukraine’s energy infrastructure during meetings with Ukrainian officials.