The head of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), Rafael Grossi, has raised alarm bells regarding the potential for a nuclear accident at Russia’s Kursk nuclear power plant. Following a visit to the site, Grossi highlighted the serious risks posed by the plant’s vulnerability and its proximity to the ongoing conflict in Ukraine.
Grossi’s concerns stem from the fact that the Kursk power plant lacks a protective dome, leaving the reactor core exposed and fragile. This vulnerability, coupled with the plant’s location near the front lines of the conflict, creates a high risk of potential damage from artillery fire, drone strikes, or missile attacks.
While the plant is currently operating at normal capacity, Grossi stressed that the situation is particularly precarious due to its close proximity to military activity. He emphasized that the IAEA will not take sides in the conflict but that preventing a nuclear accident is a paramount responsibility for all parties involved.
The IAEA’s mission to Kursk follows allegations by Russian President Vladimir Putin that the plant was shelled by Ukrainian forces. Ukraine has denied these allegations. Grossi, during his visit, observed evidence of drone strikes near the plant but did not attribute responsibility for them.
The Russian state nuclear company, Rosenergoatom, confirmed that Grossi had inspected the plant’s operations and confirmed the functionality of its Number Three reactor. The company also reported that the plant’s fourth reactor is undergoing scheduled maintenance.
The IAEA’s concerns about the Kursk nuclear power plant highlight the grave implications of military activity near nuclear facilities. The agency’s mission to the site underscores the international community’s shared responsibility to ensure the safety of nuclear installations during times of conflict.
