IAEA Chief Urges Urgent Visit to Kursk Nuclear Plant Amid Ukraine Tensions

IAEA Chief's Critical Visit to Kursk Nuclear Plant

The head of the UN’s nuclear watchdog, Rafael Grossi, is preparing for a crucial visit to the Kursk nuclear power station in south-west Russia. This visit comes in light of growing concerns regarding the safety of the facility due to Ukraine's military incursion into the region.

Assessment of Risks Due to Proximity to Conflict

Grossi has stated that the Kursk plant is technically within artillery range of Ukrainian forces, igniting fears for its safety as battlefield activities intensify. In an interview, he expressed his serious concerns, saying, "I’m very concerned" about potential damage to the facility.

• Grossi plans to engage with plant management to gather evidence of any incidents.
• He aims to evaluate the external power supply and accessibility of the plant, noting significant infrastructural damage in the area.
• Ukrainian military movements have escalated, positioning forces approximately 30 kilometers from the nuclear site.

Concerns Over Reactor Safety

With two operational reactors designed similarly to the Chernobyl facility, Grossi highlighted the inherent risks involved, as the reactor cores are exposed without protective domes. He emphasized, “It’s a Chernobyl-type plant.”

Reactions from Moscow and Kyiv

While Kyiv has remained tight-lipped about its military goals, speculation surrounds their operations near Kursk. Moscow has accused Ukraine of potentially planning an attack on the plant, which Ukrainian officials have denied.

This visit underscores crucial safety concerns as both nations remain embroiled in conflict, especially following previous events at the Zaporizhzhia nuclear plant, which has faced its own array of safety challenges since being captured by Russian forces.