IAEA Warns Zaporizhzhia Nuclear Safety Compromised by Russia

The International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) has raised serious concerns about nuclear safety at the Zaporizhzhia nuclear power plant (ZNPP) in Ukraine, currently occupied by Russian forces. IAEA Director General Rafael Grossi reported that six of the seven key safety pillars are compromised, with the plant relying on only one external power line and all six reactors in cold shutdown, posing significant risks including a dangerously low cooling pond water level. The European Union and multiple countries condemned Russia's military actions around the plant, stating that these activities threaten nuclear safety and impede IAEA monitoring missions. The EU and allied nations called for the restoration of Ukraine's control over the facility and urged the IAEA Secretariat to update on addressing nuclear safety challenges amid armed conflict. The occupation has caused extensive damage estimated at billions of hryvnias, while international efforts continue to prioritize safety, monitoring, and stability at the site. The situation remains tense, with ongoing military operations near the plant significantly increasing the risk of nuclear incidents.