UN Nuclear Agency Condemns 'Reckless Attacks' Endangering Zaporizhzhia Nuclear Power Plant
Date: August 12, 2024
The United Nations' nuclear agency has strongly condemned the "reckless attacks" that have jeopardized the safety of the Zaporizhzhia nuclear power plant in Ukraine, following reports of an explosion and fire at the site.
On Sunday, dark smoke was seen billowing from a cooling tower at the Russia-occupied plant, with both Moscow and Kyiv trading accusations over who was responsible for the fire. A Russian governor alleged that the blaze was ignited by Ukrainian shelling, while Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky asserted that Russian forces were to blame.
The International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), the UN's nuclear watchdog, reported that its experts "witnessed thick dark smoke" after hearing multiple explosions throughout the evening. The agency's statement underscored the grave risks posed by the ongoing conflict to one of Europe's largest nuclear facilities.
This incident comes amid escalating tensions as the Russian defense ministry reported that Ukrainian forces had advanced up to 19 miles into Russia's Kursk region in a daring cross-border operation that began a week ago. Moscow claimed its troops were engaged in fierce combat with Ukrainian forces in the villages of Tolpino and Obshchy Kolodez, located 16 to 19 miles from the border.
President Zelensky, in his remarks, acknowledged the cross-border attack for the first time, stating that Russia had launched approximately 2,000 attacks from the Kursk region this summer. The ongoing conflict, which has now spilled over into Russian territory, continues to raise alarms over the potential for further escalation, particularly around sensitive sites like the Zaporizhzhia nuclear power plant.
As the situation remains tense, the IAEA and other international bodies are calling for immediate de-escalation to prevent a potential nuclear disaster. The ongoing exchanges of fire near the plant underscore the urgent need for a ceasefire and the protection of critical infrastructure in the region.