NEW YORK/ENERHODAR (dpa-AFX) – Ukraine has again accused Russia of shelling the Zaporizhia nuclear power plant and preventing a mission by the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA). “Russia resorted to dangerous provocations and staged the shelling of the nuclear power plant itself,” said Ukrainian Ambassador Serhiy Kyslytsia at a UN Security Council meeting on Friday night. The destructive Russian position, unjustified conditions and the shelling have so far prevented a visit by IAEA experts.
At the same time, Kyslytsia warned of the possible consequences of a nuclear accident. “None of us can stop the wind when it spreads radioactivity, but together we can stop the terrorist state (Russia)”.
The 52-year-old called on Russia to demin the nuclear facility. Moscow should also withdraw all soldiers, weapons and technology from the power plant site. Kyiv is ready to guarantee the security of an IAEA mission in Ukrainian-controlled territory. Due to the situation, this would also have to include military experts. Moscow has repeatedly accused Kyiv of preventing IAEA experts from visiting the power plant.
The Security Council meeting was convened by Russia. The power plant site had previously been fired at with rockets again. Kyiv denies being responsible for the shelling and accuses Moscow of using the power plant site as a shield for its own artillery. The small towns of Nikopol and Marhanets on the opposite bank of the Dnipro reservoir had recently been fired on several times by the Russian army.
In May, the Ukrainian nuclear regulator made a complete withdrawal of Russia a condition for an IAEA mission to the power plant. With six reactors and a net output of 5700 megawatts, Europe’s largest nuclear power plant was occupied by Russian troops in early March. Shortly before that, Russia had invaded Ukraine./ast/DP/stw