Ukraine and IAEA to Strengthen Nuclear Safety Coordination

Ukrainian Energy Minister Denys·Shmyhal and IAEA Director General Rafael·Grossi held an online meeting, focusing on further strengthening nuclear and radiation safety cooperation amid the war. The Ukrainian side hopes to achieve independent assessments of risks and operational status of critical energy infrastructure and develop more protective measures through closer international coordination.

The talks come against the backdrop of sustained security pressures on Ukraine's energy facilities. The Ukrainian side emphasized that a stably operating power system is not only vital to public electricity supply but also directly affects the safety assurance of nuclear power plants and related facilities. The IAEA has previously carried out expert work at multiple energy facilities in Ukraine to help assess potential risks and provide technical support.

According to Ukraine's Ministry of Energy, the IAEA recently completed its eighth special mission, inspecting 13 electrical substations. The stable operation of these substations is of significant importance to maintaining nuclear and radiation safety. Shmyhal stated that Ukraine expects the IAEA to maintain a continued presence at relevant facilities to enhance external oversight and risk early-warning capabilities.

Meanwhile, the Zaporizhzhia Nuclear Power Plant recently experienced disruptions in internet and water supply, raising new safety concerns. As one of Europe's largest nuclear power plants, the facility's operating conditions and external support systems have drawn ongoing international attention. The strengthened coordination between Ukraine and the IAEA reflects that current nuclear safety risks remain at a high level, and external monitoring and sustained communication will be key means of reducing the likelihood of accidents.