Ukrainian Foreign Minister and IAEA Director General Discuss Zaporizhzhia Nuclear Power Plant Safety in Phone Call

Ukrainian Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha said on August 22 that he had a phone call with International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) Director General Rafael Grossi, during which the two sides focused on the current nuclear safety situation in Ukraine, particularly the safety status of the Zaporizhzhia Nuclear Power Plant.

Sybiha stated that the Zaporizhzhia Nuclear Power Plant is currently under Russian control, and the related military presence remains a major source of nuclear safety risk. The two sides exchanged views on issues related to the plant and emphasized the need for close coordination based on respect for Ukraine's sovereignty and international law.

Sybiha also noted that he values Grossi's personal engagement in relevant matters, as well as the IAEA's ongoing work in Ukraine, including the agency's missions at the Zaporizhzhia Nuclear Power Plant.

During the call, the two sides also exchanged views on the selection process for the next Secretary-General of the United Nations (UN), and discussed cooperation within the UN framework, ongoing initiatives, and areas where Ukraine and the IAEA can engage in practical collaboration.