Zaporizhzhia: The International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) announced on Thursday that the Zaporizhzhia Thermal Power Plant (ZTPP) experienced a 'heavy attack' earlier in the day.
According to Anadolu Agency, the UN nuclear watchdog conveyed that the information regarding the attack was provided by the Zaporizhzhia Nuclear Power Plant (ZNPP). The IAEA's team, positioned at the ZNPP, observed light smoke emanating from the thermal power plant's direction. This plant's switchyard plays a critical role in delivering electricity to the nuclear facility. Furthermore, the team reported hearing sounds indicative of military activity.
The IAEA's statement emphasized the seriousness of the incident, particularly concerning the ZNPP's only remaining power line. This line has faced disconnections multiple times in recent weeks, resulting in the plant relying solely on emergency diesel generators to maintain the cooling of its six reactors and prevent a potential nuclear accident. The agency confirmed that the power line is still operational, while ZTPP personnel sought shelter during the attack.
Rafael Grossi, the IAEA Director General, voiced 'deep concern' over the reported attack and insisted that it must cease immediately to prevent the risk of an extended power loss incident at the ZNPP. As of now, neither Russian nor Ukrainian officials have made any remarks regarding the IAEA's statement.
The ongoing situation around Zaporizhzhia, recognized as Europe's largest nuclear power plant, continues to be tense. Concerns over a possible nuclear disaster persist, with both Moscow and Kyiv regularly accusing each other of executing attacks in the vicinity of the facility. IAEA personnel have been stationed at the plant since September 1, 2022, following its capture by Russian forces in March 2022.
In related developments, the Russian Defense Ministry reported that its air defenses intercepted and destroyed 272 Ukrainian drones overnight. Meanwhile, Ukraine's Air Force claimed to have downed 264 out of 293 drones launched by Russia during the same period. These assertions by both parties have not been independently verified.