The International Atomic Energy (IAEA), the UN nuclear watchdog has expressed it worry over reports of disruption of communication from Europe’s largest nuclear power plant in Ukraine. The nuclear power plant has been seized by Russia.
Invading Russian forces attacked and seized the Zaporizhzhia nuclear power plant in Ukraine on Friday.
The International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) said in a statement that Ukraine informed it that the plant management is now under orders from the commander of the Russian forces.
Ukraine has also reported that the Russian forces have switched off some mobile networks and the internet, and that telephone lines, emails and fax were not functioning anymore.
They said mobile phone communication was still possible with poor quality, the IAEA said.
“I’m extremely concerned about these developments that were reported to me today,” IAEA Director General Rafael Grossi said.
“In order to be able to operate the plant safely and securely, management and staff must be allowed to carry out their vital duties in stable conditions without undue external interference or pressure,” he added.
He expressed “deep concern” over “the deteriorating situation regarding vital communications between the regulator and the Zaporizhzhia NPP (nuclear power plant)”.
“Reliable communications between the regulator and the operator are a critical part of overall nuclear safety and security,” he said.
On Sunday, Russian President Vladimir Putin assured French President Emmanuel Macron of the “physical and nuclear safety” of the Zaporizhzhia nuclear plant, according to the Kremlin.
(With inputs from agencies)
