MOSCOW: UN nuclear watchdog head Rafael Grossi on Tuesday warned during a visit to Russia’s Kursk nuclear power plant that its proximity to ongoing fighting was “extremely serious” following Ukraine’s unprecedented cross-border offensive. The Kursk nuclear power plant is situated less than 50 kilometers (30 miles) from the front lines of the conflict.
The International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) chief described the situation as “extremely serious,” noting the critical importance of ensuring that nuclear facilities are protected from the dangers of armed conflict.
“A nuclear power plant of this type so close to a point of contact or military front is an extremely serious fact,” Grossi said after touring the facility. He emphasized the need for heightened vigilance, stating, “At the end of the day, again, this may sound common sense and simple: Don’t attack a nuclear power plant.”
The Kursk power plant, which lies about 60 kilometers from the Russia-Ukraine border and near the Seym River, has four reactor units, with two operational and two under construction. The plant’s reactors are similar to those of the now-decommissioned Chernobyl plant in Ukraine, lacking the protective dome found in more modern reactors.
Grossi, who has been in “close contact” with Russian authorities, also plans to visit Kyiv next week to meet with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky. He stressed the importance of maintaining dialogue to prevent further escalation. “It is important to talk and keep dialogue,” Grossi said.
Meanwhile, Ukraine has reported advances in Russia’s Kursk region despite ongoing Russian military responses. Russian President Vladimir Putin has accused Ukraine of attempting to attack the Kursk nuclear power plant, citing drone fragments found near the plant’s spent nuclear fuel storage facility.
