in response to growing concerns over the plant’s safety following recent military activity in the area.
“Given the serious situation, I’m personally leading tomorrow’s IAEA mission to the Kursk Nuclear Power Plant in Russia,” Grossi stated.
“The safety and security of nuclear facilities must, under no circumstances, be endangered,” he added.
The situation surrounding the Kursk plant became increasingly tense earlier this month after Ukrainian forces began the incursion into Russia’s Kursk region on August 6. As a result, Russia accused Ukraine of committing an act of “nuclear terrorism.”
Alexei Smirnov, the governor of the Kursk region, reportedly briefed President Vladimir Putin, assuring him that the situation at the nuclear plant remains “stable,” according to Reuters.
Kurchatov, a city of 42,000 residents, is home to one of Russia’s biggest nuclear facilities. The Kursk Nuclear Power Plant is notable not only for its size but also for being the only plant in Russia currently undergoing the construction of new power units.
Grossi’s visit underscores the IAEA’s concerns over the potential risks posed by the ongoing conflict between Russia and Ukraine, particularly as it relates to the safety of nuclear installations. The visit is expected to include detailed inspections and discussions with plant officials to assess the current situation and provide recommendations for enhancing security.
