Nuclear risk in Ukraine: Iaea warns of threatening disaster!

Nuclear risk in Ukraine: Iaea warns of threatening disaster!

Saporischschja, Ukraine - The situation in Ukraine remains alarming in view of the continuing Russian attacks, especially with regard to nuclear security. The general director of the International Atomic Energy Organization (IAEA), Rafael Grossi, commented concerns about the dangerous situation, which is reinforced by the military escalations. During his visit to Kiev, Grossi emphasized the need for a permanent presence of the IAEA to minimize the risk of a nuclear accident. Since the end of last year, IAEA employees have also seen the most intensive air raid salarific.

Ukraine covers more than half of its electricity requirements by atomic energy, which makes the nuclear infrastructure there of immense interest. The largest nuclear power plant in Europe, the Saporischschja nuclear power plant, has been under Russian control since 2022 and has been shut down for security reasons. President Wolodimir Selenski described the plans of Russia to put this power plant back into operation without Ukrainian participation as "absurd and dangerous". He emphasized the essential role of the unhindered IAEA presence in the system.

challenges for the iaea

The IAEA has a key position in protecting and monitoring the Ukrainian nuclear power plants since the beginning of the war. As part of its work, the IAEA regularly sends teams of experts on reactor locations in Riwne and Chmelnyzkyj. In addition, she has set up a permanent presence in the Saporischschja nuclear power plant since September 2022. However, the location remains tense: Due to the frequent air-stricken salaries, IAEA teams had to go to shelter up to three times. These challenges underline the criticism of the security situation in the region.

The upcoming preparations for the reconstruction of the energy infrastructure in Ukraine were also highlighted by Grossi. Ukraine security forces regularly carry out exercises to arm the nuclear power plants against potential attacks. However, there is worry that negotiations on the demilitarization of the zone around the Saporischschja nuclear power plant could remain complex and lengthy. Grossi also plans a trip to Moscow to continue the talks with the Russian side.

global reactions and support

The international community, including NATO, is supportive in this crisis. Due to the threat of Russia, NATO plans to increase its defense skills by around 30 percent. This includes the expansion of marching aircraft, drones and air defense systems. Germany will accept new national planning goals to increase troop strength and invest in modern weapons.

The complex geopolitical landscape, especially with regard to nuclear security and the military support of Ukraine, remains tense. While the IAEA continues to take care of security in the nuclear power plants, the development of the conflict situation remains of central importance for geopolitical stability in the region. Protectively acting institutions such as the IAEA play a crucial role in preventing a catastrophic nuclear crisis.