Ukraine Condemns IAEA Visit to Zaporizhzhia Plant via Occupied Territory

Ukraine has condemned the International Atomic Energy Agency's (IAEA) recent visit to the Zaporizhzhia nuclear power plant through Russian-occupied territories, labeling it a breach of its territorial sovereignty. The Ukrainian Foreign Ministry accused Russia of using blackmail to manipulate international organizations, resulting in unauthorized operational mechanisms in occupied areas. This marked the first time IAEA personnel accessed the plant via Russian-controlled regions, a significant shift from previous inspections conducted from Ukrainian territory. Ukraine highlighted that the IAEA's actions effectively forced its staff to remain under unprecedented psychological pressure and dismissed the visit as a mere humanitarian evacuation rather than a legitimate rotation. The ministry criticized Russia for obstructing safe exits for international experts and reiterated its proposal for safe staff rotations through Ukrainian-controlled territories. The IAEA has yet to respond to Ukraine's allegations and concerns.