IAEA conducted its first rotation of experts at the ZNPP without Ukraine's consent, according to reports.

The International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) has conducted a rotation of its experts at the temporarily occupied Zaporizhzhia Nuclear Power Plant without prior agreement with Ukraine for the first time. The replacement of inspectors occurred under the supervision of Russian military forces.

This was reported by the Russian agency "Interfax," citing the state corporation "Rosatom."

It is known that three inspectors will work in the new mission to continue monitoring the safety of the plant.

Rumors about a potential rotation scenario without Kyiv's consent emerged on February 28. Radio Free Europe journalist Rikard Jozwiak reported that the IAEA plans to change the mission via territory controlled by the Russian Federation, likely through Crimea. He emphasized that this move contradicts warnings from the EU and could be part of Rafael Grossi's strategy, who aims to secure the position of UN Secretary-General.

The previous rotation was supposed to take place a month ago, but it was postponed twice. IAEA representatives have been at the ZNPP since September 2022.

Ukraine and the IAEA have not commented on the situation so far, and it is unclear whether Kyiv was notified of the rotation in advance.

Recall that on February 11, one of the two power lines of the occupied Zaporizhzhia Nuclear Power Plant was disabled due to enemy shelling. The NPP once again faced the brink of blackout due to Russian attacks.

Furthermore, on Sunday, February 16, the Russians deliberately disrupted the IAEA experts' rotation at the Zaporizhzhia NPP for the third consecutive time. The Ukrainian Foreign Ministry believes that this is an attempt by the Russian Federation to undermine the independence of the IAEA.