Drone hits Zaporizhzhia Nuclear Power Plant; IAEA calls it 'playing with fire'

The International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) reported that a drone struck the turbine building at the Zaporizhzhia Nuclear Power Plant (ZNPP), causing a breach in the wall. IAEA Director General Rafael Grossi expressed grave concern over the incident, emphasizing that such actions endanger the seven essential pillars of nuclear safety and security during conflict.

Grossi stated that attacking nuclear facilities is akin to "playing with fire." The IAEA team stationed at the ZNPP has requested access to the damaged turbine building to conduct a direct inspection and gather further details. This event is the first reported drone attack on the plant's premises since April 2024, intensifying fears surrounding nuclear safety in the region.

This incident follows a recent 12-hour power outage at the ZNPP, attributed to increased military activity in the vicinity. This outage was the longest since Russian forces occupied the facility in 2022. The ZNPP, Europe's largest nuclear power station by capacity, remains a critical point of concern amid the ongoing conflict.

The IAEA has pledged to provide updates as its experts gain access to the site and collect more information. The situation at the plant underscores the persistent risks to nuclear infrastructure in conflict zones.

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attacking nuclear facilities is akin to playing with fire