A drone attack on the Zaporizhzhia Nuclear Power Plant in Ukraine, which is controlled by Russia, has raised concerns about nuclear safety. The International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) on X stated that the attack, which occurred on Sunday, caused damage but did not compromise the plant’s nuclear safety.
IAEA experts confirmed physical impact of drone attacks at ZNPP today, incl. at 1 of its 6 reactors.
One casualty reported. Damage at unit 6 has not compromised nuclear safety, but this is a serious incident w/ potential to undermine integrity of the reactor’s containment system. pic.twitter.com/FvMsb4I4vs— IAEA – International Atomic Energy Agency ⚛️ (@iaeaorg) April 7, 2024
According to CNN, the IAEA described the attack as “a serious incident with the potential to undermine the integrity of the reactor’s containment system.” However, the agency assured that despite the damage, the nuclear safety at the facility remained intact.
Rafael Grossi, the director-general of the IAEA, condemned the attack, highlighting its potential to trigger a major nuclear accident. He emphasized the importance of protecting the largest nuclear power plant in Europe and called for an immediate cessation of such reckless actions.
The drone attack reportedly resulted in three direct hits on the main reactor containment at the facility, leading to one casualty. Russian authorities accused the Ukrainian military of carrying out the attacks using “self-exploding” drones. However, Ukraine denied any involvement in the incident.
The Zaporizhzhia Nuclear Power Plant confirmed the damage caused by the attack. A truck unloading food was damaged, and another hit was registered in the cargo port area of the facility. CNN reported that the infrastructure damage might affect the safe operation of the nuclear power plant.
In response to Russia’s accusations, Ukraine reiterated its denial of involvement in the attack. Andriy Yusov, a spokesperson for the Defence Intelligence of Ukraine, emphasized the aggressor state’s endangerment of the nuclear facility, civilians, and the environment of Europe.
Grossi reiterated the gravity of attacking nuclear facilities, stating that such actions provide no military or political advantage. He urged military decision-makers to respect the basic principles protecting nuclear facilities and abstain from any actions that could jeopardize nuclear safety.
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