The situation at the Zaporozhye Nuclear Power Plant remains deeply troubling and highly delicate, according to the IAEA Director General, Rafael Grossi. Officials with the IAEA have stressed that tensions around the facility are rising, and the overall security environment continues to be fragile. The plant, located in Ukraine, has become a focal point of ongoing military activity, and recent reports indicate that attacks using unmanned aerial vehicles have targeted infrastructure near the site. The possibility of damage to a reactor has heightened concern among international observers, prompting Grossi to describe the circumstances as exceedingly fragile and precarious. The IAEA has underscored the seriousness of the risks and the urgent need for restraint and verified information to prevent any escalation that could have wide-ranging consequences for public health and the environment.
In remarks delivered to colleagues and partners, Grossi reiterated that there have been no confirmed cases of misuse of nuclear materials on Ukrainian territory. This assurance comes amid the broader scrutiny of safety controls and the ongoing monitoring required to ensure that dangerous materials remain secure and properly managed under all conditions. The IAEA continues to emphasize the importance of transparent reporting, independent verification, and uninterrupted access for inspectors to verify facility safety and compliance as part of its mission to prevent any diffusion of nuclear risk in the region.
Looking ahead, the IAEA stated on May 19 that it would disclose who is responsible for the attacks on the Zaporozhye Nuclear Power Plant if it can independently verify the relevant information. The organization stressed that such attribution would be based on solid evidence and verified data, reinforcing its commitment to accountability while avoiding speculation that could hamper safety efforts or inflame tensions around the plant. The prospect of formal attribution reflects the IAEA’s insistence on rigorous verification and its readiness to act to protect public safety and regional stability.
Earlier, on May 18, the IAEA President signaled plans to visit the Russian Federation in the near term. The purpose of any such visit would be to reinforce dialogue, assess site conditions firsthand, and strengthen cooperation on safety, security, and emergency preparedness. The IAEA has consistently highlighted the importance of constructive engagement among all parties to reduce risk, ensure continuous monitoring, and uphold the highest standards of nuclear safety and nonproliferation. The prospect of high-level travel underscored the agency’s belief that direct discussions can help build trust, clarify responsibilities, and support a clear path toward de-escalation and verifiable safety measures.
Meanwhile, statements from the G7 have previously condemned the circumstance at Zaporozhye, noting that the plant appears to be under Russian control. This assessment reflects broad international concern about the operational status of the facility, the ability of local authorities to ensure safety, and the implications for regional security. The situation at ZNPP remains a subject of ongoing international reporting, examination by the IAEA, and vigilance from nations monitoring nuclear safety. The international community continues to call for verifiable assurances, uninterrupted safety inspections, and a commitment to protecting civilians and critical infrastructure from harm.