Ukraine's Response to IAEA Actions at Zaporizhzhia Nuclear Plant
02 March 2025 16:45
Ukraine has responded to the rotation of IAEA experts at the Zaporizhzhia Nuclear Power Plant, located in territory temporarily occupied by Russia.
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs condemned the violations of Ukraine's sovereignty, attributing them to Russian coercion.
Ukraine Protests Against IAEA Actions
The Ministry views the IAEA's actions not as a rotation of experts but as a humanitarian evacuation due to threats to the lives of agency staff.
The ministry stated that Russia is deliberately obstructing the work of international organizations in Ukraine, forcing them to violate Ukrainian legislation and bilateral agreements.
“Russia has effectively forced IAEA staff to remain at the station without rotation for 80 days, significantly exceeding the planned duration,” the statement reads.
Ukraine reminded that it has repeatedly offered a safe rotation route through controlled territory. However, Russia refused to provide security guarantees.
“The Kremlin intentionally blocked the safe exit of specialists through Ukrainian-controlled territory, compelling the agency to accept Russian conditions,” the Ministry emphasized.
Kyiv has sent a note of protest to the IAEA, condemning the violation of its sovereignty and territorial integrity by the organization's staff.
IAEA Rotates Personnel through Occupied Territories
It was recently reported that the IAEA conducted its first rotation of personnel at the Zaporizhzhia Nuclear Power Plant through occupied territories.
“What seemed impossible just a few days ago has happened. The IAEA deployed its personnel at the Zaporizhzhia Nuclear Power Plant through Russian-occupied territory without Ukrainian approval,” journalist Rikard Jozwiak posted on social media.
Russian media reported on the IAEA's rotation, citing statements from Rosatom. According to them, it occurred under the protection of Russian military forces.
“The team consists of 27 IAEA observers, including three inspectors. Their task remains to monitor and assess the safety status of the plant,” quoted Russian Interfax.
The exact timing of the rotation was not specified.