Nuclear safety at Russian-controlled power plant in Ukraine deteriorating
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The news: Safety at the Russia-occupied Zaporizhzhia nuclear power plant in Ukraine is deteriorating after intense military activity this week and a drone strike near the facility this weekend, the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) said.
The numbers: The Zaporizhzhia nuclear power plant is located about 50 kilometres southwest of Ukraine's southeastern city of Zaporizhzhia.
On Saturday, a drone exploded close to essential cooling water sprinkler ponds about 100 meters from the only 750-kilovolt line still supplying power the plant, the Vienna-based nuclear watchdog said in a statement.
The context: The plant, under Russian control since February 2022, has faced repeated attacks, with both Ukraine and Russia trading accusations.
Last week, a fire that broke out at one of the cooling towers at the plant caused “considerable damage,” the IAEA said, although there was no immediate threat to nuclear safety.
What they said: “I remain extremely concerned and reiterate my call for maximum restraint from all sides,” IAEA Director General Rafael Grossi said.
The sources: IAEA, The Guardian
