Ukraine’s Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha informed the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) about Russia’s intentions to strike critical nuclear energy infrastructure in Ukraine ahead of the winter season.
Russia’s massive strikes on Ukrainian energy grid in 2024 has destroyed 80% of thermal generation and 40% of hydroelectric power capacities in Ukraine, as per the International Monetary Fund, leaving nuclear energy one of Ukraine’s the last functioning power generating capacities.
According to the minister, attacks on these facilities pose a high risk of a nuclear incident with global consequences. Ukrainian intelligence has already shared this information with its partners, and Sybiha has also informed the IAEA on the matter.
“According to Ukrainian intelligence, the Kremlin is preparing strikes on critical nuclear energy facilities in Ukraine before the winter, specifically targeting open distribution devices at nuclear plants and transmission substations critical for the safe operation of the country’s nuclear power,” Sybiha stated.
He also noted that Russia remains the only country to have captured a nuclear power plant in Europe, referring to the Zaporizhzhia Nuclear Power Plant. The facility has been occupied since 2022 and requires repairs, with explosives stored by Russian forces, turning it into both a military base and a tool of blackmail against the West and Ukraine.
The Ukrainian foreign minister emphasized that protecting nuclear facilities is a key point of Ukraine’s Peace Formula.
“Ukraine’s Peace Formula includes provisions for ensuring radiation and nuclear safety. We urge all international organizations and nations that respect the UN Charter to prevent the terrorist state’s scenario,” Sybiha implored.
He expressed gratitude to the IAEA for its decision to expand missions at several Ukrainian energy sites.
“We call on the Agency, partner countries, and other organizations to expedite the implementation of the agreements,” Sybiha stressed.
The minister also urged for a permanent expanded presence of IAEA missions at all relevant facilities.
Related:
- Russia staged attack on Zaporizhzhia nuclear power plant – Ukraine intel
- Russian forces use Zaporizhzhia nuclear power plant as military base (video)
- Russian troops abduct and torture Zaporizhzhia Nuclear Power Plant employee – Energoatom
- Drone strike hits Zaporizhzhia nuclear power plant again, IAEA denied in site access – Grossi
