In a tense update this week, the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) revealed its team at Ukraine’s Zaporizhzhia nuclear power plant detected artillery fire nearby, with black smoke rising from three spots just 400 meters from the site’s fuel storage. 💥
Multiple shells fell outside the plant’s perimeter—around 400 meters from the off-site diesel fuel tanks—creating a scenario that feels like playing Jenga with nuclear fuel. Thankfully, no casualties or damage were reported. But IAEA Director General Rafael Grossi reminded everyone that nuclear safety is no game. 🎯
Even though all six reactors at Europe’s largest nuclear plant remain shut down, the nuclear fuel inside still demands around-the-clock cooling. Any disruption to power or cooling systems could have serious consequences. 😨
Russian forces have held control of the plant since 2022, and Moscow and Kyiv often trade blame over actions that might jeopardize safety. Neither side has commented on this latest episode.
Last week, a governor appointed by Moscow in the Zaporizhzhia region said a Ukrainian drone exploded above the facility. Staff also reported two attacks on a nearby training center within a week, highlighting the ongoing hazards in the area. 🕵️♂️
The IAEA keeps permanent monitoring teams at Zaporizhzhia and Ukraine’s other nuclear sites, urging all parties to avoid moves that could pose threats to the plant. For now, the world watches and hopes for calm. 🤞
Reference(s):
IAEA says shelling reported near Ukraine's Zaporizhzhia nuclear plant
cgtn.com
