Russia blocks IAEA from inspecting Zaporizhzhia training center after drone incident
Russia blocks IAEA from Zaporizhzhia training center (Getty Images)
Experts from the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) were not granted access to the training center of the Zaporizhzhia Nuclear Power Plant, which was reportedly targeted by a drone on July 13, according to an IAEA press release.
According to reports, Russian forces claimed on July 13 that a drone attack had damaged the roof of the training center. However, IAEA experts were not shown any evidence of this.
"The team was not granted access to assess the damage to the training centre located outside the site perimeter, with the plant citing security concerns," the IAEA stated.
It was also reported that a fire that broke out near Enerhodar and the Zaporizhzhia Nuclear Power Plant on July 19 was extinguished by Russian forces and did not pose a nuclear safety threat, according to plant representatives.
International observers stationed at the plant continue to hear daily sounds of shelling, explosions, and gunfire. The facility is currently connected to only one power line.
Situation at Zaporizhzhia Nuclear Power Plant
Russian forces seized the Zaporizhzhia Nuclear Power Plant (ZNPP) at the beginning of the full-scale invasion of Ukraine.
Since then, Russian forces have systematically violated nuclear safety protocols, creating a constant threat of a man-made disaster. Military equipment and personnel have been deployed on the plant's premises.
During his most recent visit to Kyiv, IAEA Director General Rafael Grossi stated that the nuclear safety threats in Ukraine remain real and persistent, especially amid intensified Russian airstrikes.
Recently, IAEA inspectors recorded hundreds of gunshots near the power units of the Zaporizhzhia NPP. Grossi described the military activity in the area as unacceptable.
Additionally, on July 19, a column of smoke was observed near the plant. It was reportedly caused by a forest fire, which posed no nuclear safety risk.
