IAEA Urges Russia to De-occupy Mined Zaporizhzhia Nuclear Plant in Enerhodar

Sep 20, 2024, 11:00 AM

The International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) has reported that Russian forces have mined the perimeter of the Zaporizhzhia Nuclear Power Plant (ZNPP) in Enerhodar, the Russian-occupied part of the Zaporizhzhia region in Ukraine. The presence of Russian troops and military equipment at the plant is preventing access to the IAEA mission, according to IAEA Director Rafael Grossi. Additionally, the IAEA has urged Russia to immediately de-occupy the plant and return control to Ukraine, citing high risks of a catastrophe. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky expressed gratitude to the IAEA General Conference for passing a resolution that reaffirms the need for Ukraine to regain full control of the plant and withdraw Russian troops and personnel from ZNPP. Meanwhile, Russian forces are reportedly mining dams in the Belgorod region of southwest Russia, potentially setting up false-flag operations to blame Ukraine for any resulting environmental and humanitarian consequences.