Director of IAEA to discuss with Putin Russia's plans for Zaporizhzhia nuclear power plant

Rafael Grossi, Director General of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), said on Monday that he intends to discuss Russia's plans for the Zaporizhzhia nuclear power plant in Ukraine when he meets with Russian President Vladimir Putin this week.

Grossi explained during a press conference on the opening day of the quarterly meeting of the Agency's Board of Governors, composed of 35 countries, which commemorated the second anniversary of the Russian forces' seizure of the plant that he would leave for Russia tomorrow, Tuesday.

Grossi's visit to Russia has been planned for a long time. He had originally intended to visit last month after a trip to Ukraine.

When asked what he would discuss with Putin, Grossi said, "There are issues related to the future operational status of the plant. Will it be operated or not?... What is the plan for external power supply lines, as what we see is a very fragile and weak situation?"

Zaporizhzhia, Europe's largest nuclear power plant, has lost connection to all external power lines eight times in the past 18 months, forcing it to rely on diesel generators to perform essential functions such as fuel cooling in its reactors to avoid a potentially catastrophic meltdown.

One main power line is currently operating while the plant's six reactors are shut down, reducing operational risks. However, the International Atomic Energy Agency says the situation at the plant remains dangerous.

Reuters