For the third consecutive time, Russia deliberately disrupted the rotation of IAEA experts at the Zaporizhzhia nuclear power plant.

On Sunday, February 16, Russians deliberately disrupted the rotation of IAEA experts at the Zaporizhzhia Nuclear Power Plant for the third consecutive time. The Ukrainian Foreign Ministry believes that Russia aims to undermine the independence of the IAEA through this action.

This was reported by Foreign Ministry spokesperson Georgiy Tikhiy.

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According to Tikhiy, the previous rotations scheduled for January and February did not occur due to Russian obstruction. Moscow systematically hinders access for international observers, employing blackmail, provocations, and outright threats.

The Foreign Ministry spokesperson noted that Russia has already extended the stay of IAEA experts at the NPP for 69 days, marking the longest period without rotation since the mission was deployed at the plant.

“Moscow seeks to corner international experts – either they operate under Russian control and remain silent about the real situation, or the plant is left without independent international oversight. This is not merely another disruption of rotation. It is part of a broader Kremlin strategy to undermine the IAEA's independence, force the agency into compromises with the aggressor, and make it dependent on decisions from Moscow,” emphasized Tikhiy.

Tikhiy called on the international community to respond to Russian blackmail and threats by completely halting cooperation with the Russian nuclear sector.

“We urge the international community to deliver a strong assessment of Russia's actions and take measures to end its impunity. Not only statements are needed, but also concrete actions that will protect the independence of the IAEA and deprive the Kremlin of the ability to use nuclear energy as a weapon,” the spokesperson added.

It is worth noting that on February 11, one of the two power supply lines of the occupied Zaporizhzhia Nuclear Power Plant was cut off due to enemy shelling. The plant was once again on the brink of a blackout due to Russian attacks.

Last year, the Zaporizhzhia NPP was repeatedly on the verge of a blackout due to assaults by Russians. In November alone, the plant remained on a single power line three times due to shelling.