Rafael Grossi, director general of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), said that “the number of Ukrainian workers at the Zaporizhzhia nuclear power plant has dropped dramatically” since Russian forces occupied the plant and nearby towns in March. 2022
The head of the United Nations nuclear watchdog told a media briefing in Kiev that “Normally a factory like this would have around 10,000 people working, and now it’s more or less reduced to 3,000.”
He adds that the number is sufficient in current conditions. Because the factory is operating at a low level. “But of course it’s a concern,” he said.
He said a number of IAEA workers at the plant were fine and able to work properly.
“Very worried”: Grossi said that despite the hardships throughout the conflict, But Ukraine’s nuclear power system has proven to be resilient.
“Good side [is that] It’s been almost a year since the start of the conflict in a territory with a massive nuclear infrastructure. We have a very difficult time when facilities operate in emergency mode. And we see the flexibility of the system,” he said.
Still, he explained that the situation was still precarious and that the IAEA was “extremely concerned” about the Zaporizhzhia plant.
This plant has always been at the forefront. and only on Thursday There were two major explosions in the vicinity of the plant, he said.
“We know nuclear accidents or accidents with serious radiation effects happen every day,” he said, adding that a protective zone around the plant is indispensable.
“Crying Wolf”: Grossi said there were no signs that Russia was trying to connect plants to its own grid.
Asked if Russia showed goodwill and cooperation, Grossi replied: “I am professional with them.” And he plans to visit Russia soon.
Grossi said he was concerned the international community would pay less attention to the situation. “I’m worried this will become a routine … People might ask if the IAEA is crying wolves,” he said.
