Concerns are mounting about the safety of a Russian nuclear power plant, amidst the ongoing conflict with Ukraine. This warning comes from the head of the United Nations’ International Atomic Energy Agency, Rafael Grossi.
On a recent visit to the plant in the Kursk region, Grossi stated, “there is now a danger of a nuclear incident here,” highlighting reports of drone strikes targeting the facility. He noted visible evidence of these attacks during his inspection.
Grossi also took to social media to express the severity of the situation, emphasizing the importance of preventing any nuclear accidents during this conflict. He firmly stated that attacking any nuclear power plant is unacceptable, regardless of its location, and pledged the IAEA’s commitment to promoting nuclear safety.
AP Photo/Andriy Andriyenko/AP Photo/Andriy Andriyenko
Earlier this month, Ukraine executed an unexpected offensive in Russia’s Kursk Oblast, intensifying the conflict that has escalated since Russia’s invasion in February 2022. This has led to mass evacuations in the area as clashes continue to rise.
In retaliation, Russia conducted extensive missile strikes against Ukraine, with one attack being described by Kyiv officials as one of the largest yet in the ongoing war.
President Volodymyr Zelensky of Ukraine has expressed a desire to escalate attacks deeper within Russia but noted that his allies have been hesitant to support this strategy. He shared that discussions on the matter have been limited, humorously likening it to ongoing “ping-pong” diplomacy.
Maria Zakharova, from the Russian Foreign Ministry, has asserted that Ukraine’s recent operations have effectively ended prospects for peace talks, arguing that there can be no negotiations in light of the violence against civilians and infrastructure.
This article includes reporting from The Associated Press.