IAEA inspectors took cover from Russian drones swarming Ukrainian NPPs
Rafael Grossi (Photo: REUTERS/Mykola Synelnykov)
International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) inspectors were forced to take shelter in hotel basements during Russian drone attacks targeting Ukraine’s nuclear power facilities, the IAEA said in a statement on Feb. 6.
“On Tuesday last week [Jan. 27], the IAEA team at Rivne NPP sheltered at their hotel, while two drones were detected within the plant’s surveillance zone; another six drones were detected at Rivne NPP last week,” the message said.
During the Jan. 31 grid cascade caused by failed power lines linking Ukraine with Moldova and Romania, one reactor automatically shut down, and others were forced to reduce output. The Chornobyl nuclear power plant relied on diesel generators for about an hour to maintain the spent fuel cooling systems running.
“This latest grid event in Ukraine is a stark reminder of the ever-present risks to nuclear safety and security arising from deteriorating grid conditions,” said IAEA head Rafael Grossi.
“Extensive repairs are needed to improve the reliability of power supply to Ukrainian NPPs and to strengthen their resilience to further grid events. Once again, I call for maximum military restraint, as well as full observance of the Seven Indispensable Pillars to enable these essential repairs to take place.”
IAEA experts are now examining 10 substations critical to plant operations across the country.
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