The Ukrainian Foreign Ministry has commented on the recent rotation of International Atomic Energy Agency experts at the Zaporizhzhia Nuclear Power Plant, located in temporarily occupied territory.
The ministry emphasized that these actions by the agency constitute a violation of Ukraine's state sovereignty and territorial integrity, which it attributes to Russian coercion.
Ukraine Files Protest Against IAEA Actions
The Foreign Ministry views the IAEA's actions not as a rotation of experts at the NPP, but rather as a forced evacuation due to threats to their lives.
It was noted that Russia deliberately obstructs the work of international organizations in Ukraine, forcing them to violate Ukrainian laws and bilateral agreements.
“Russia has effectively forced IAEA staff to remain at the station for 80 days without rotation, significantly exceeding the planned timeline, subjecting them to unprecedented psychological pressure in a high-risk area,” the statement read.
The ministry reminded that Ukraine has repeatedly offered safe routes for rotation through controlled territory, but Russia refused to provide security guarantees.
“The Kremlin has intentionally blocked the safe exit of specialists through territories controlled by Ukraine, forcing the agency to agree to Russian terms,” the Foreign Ministry emphasized.
Kyiv has sent a formal protest to the IAEA, condemning violations of its sovereignty.
IAEA Conducts Rotation at Zaporizhzhia NPP via Occupied Territories
Reports surfaced earlier that the IAEA had conducted its first rotation of personnel at the Zaporizhzhia NPP through Russian-occupied territories.
“What seemed impossible just a few days ago has happened. The IAEA relocated its staff to the Zaporizhzhia NPP without Ukrainian consent,” journalist Rikard Jozwiak reported on social media.
Russian media confirmed the rotation, citing statements from “Rosatom,” indicating that it took place under the protection of Russian military forces.
“Among the 27-member IAEA observer team are three inspectors. Their task remains to observe and assess the safety status of the station,” quoted the Russian “Interfax.”
The exact timing of the rotation remains unspecified.