IAEA records new shelling and hazardous smoke near Zaporizhzhia NPP: calls for restraint amid conflict
The International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) has documented a new escalation in the tense situation around the Zaporizhzhia Nuclear Power Plant (NPP), which remains under temporary occupation by Russian forces.
On September 16, the IAEA team reported shelling near the facility and the appearance of black smoke rising from three different locations close to the station.
According to the agency, several artillery shells struck outside the station’s perimeter, approximately 400 meters from the diesel fuel storage area, posing increased risks to nuclear security and local residents.
Immediately following the blasts, black smoke was observed emanating from three points near the station, and observers heard periodic explosions lasting nearly two hours, including three powerful detonations around 14:30.
Sound of gunfire was also recorded.
Due to the dangerous situation, inspectors were unable to personally examine the impact sites but plan to do so the following morning, circumstances permitting.
IAEA Director General Rafael Grossi expressed deep concern over the growing nuclear safety risks and called on parties to exercise maximum restraint.
He emphasized that this incident underscores ongoing dangers resulting from military conflict near nuclear sites.
Particular alarm is raised over the condition of the Zaporizhzhia NPP, where only one of the seven crucial power lines remains operational, significantly increasing the risk of a nuclear accident.
Grossi urged immediate measures to de-escalate tensions and prevent further risks in this critical situation.