The International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) warned Thursday night of a series of «powerful explosions» outside the Zaporiyia nuclear power plant in southern Ukraine under Russian control.
The agency has acknowledged that «in recent days and weeks» explosions have been confirmed «at some distance from the nuclear power plant», although it is true that others have occurred at points «much closer to the facility».
In this regard, the IAEA pointed out that early on Wednesday up to eight «strong detonations» were detected, which even caused vibrations in the windows of the offices where the Agency’s experts work.
Thus, IAEA Director General Rafael Grossi took the opportunity to stress the «vital importance of agreeing and implementing a nuclear safety protection zone» around the Zaporiyia plant.
«A safety zone would help protect the Zaporiyia nuclear power plant, ensuring that it is not targeted and also not used for attacks from the site,» Grossi said of a measure they recommended months ago.
In fact, Grossi appeared before the European Parliament this week to thank the «strong support» received by European powers in this regard, although he warned that «more is needed.» «We cannot stop,» he said.
In early September, an IAEA mission led by Grossi visited the nuclear power plant after which several IAEA employees remained on site as international observers.
The Zaporiyia nuclear power plant, considered to be the largest in Europe, has been the scene of clashes between Ukrainian and Russian troops since the early stages of the war. In mid-October Moscow claimed to have taken control of the facility.
Source: (EUROPA PRESS)
