In a concerning development, the Director General of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), Rafael Grossi, has raised serious concerns about the heightened risk at the Kursk nuclear power plant in Russia. The plant, located near the frontlines of the ongoing conflict between Russia and Ukraine, lacks the protective dome that is standard for most nuclear facilities, making it extremely vulnerable to potential artillery or drone strikes.

Grossi, who recently led a mission to the nuclear site, confirmed that evidence of drone strikes was found during his visit. Speaking to reporters, he highlighted the dangerous situation, stating, "The danger or the possibility of a nuclear accident has emerged near here." He reiterated that the core of the reactor, which contains nuclear material, is currently only protected by a regular roof. This makes it highly exposed and fragile, susceptible to various forms of attack.

Amid accusations between Russia and Ukraine regarding the targeting of the power plant, Grossi refrained from assigning blame to any specific party for the drone strikes. However, he emphasized the gravity of the situation, stating that the proximity of the nuclear power plant to the conflict zone poses an "extremely serious" risk that the IAEA takes very seriously.

Despite the precarious circumstances, Grossi assured that the Kursk power station is operating under "very close to normal conditions." He emphasized that it is the responsibility of all involved parties to ensure that no nuclear accident occurs. He emphasized that the IAEA will not take sides in the Russian-Ukrainian war, stating, "This conflict, this war, is not the responsibility of the IAEA."

The concerns raised at the Kursk plant are yet another reminder of the nuclear risks associated with the ongoing conflict. Grossi previously established five principles to ensure nuclear safety, urging Russia and Ukraine to comply. However, Russia's capture of Ukraine's Zaporizhzhia nuclear plant and subsequent endangerment of its safety have drawn condemnation from Grossi.

In light of the escalating tensions, Grossi is set to travel to Ukraine next week for discussions with President Volodymyr Zelenskyy. Key topics of discussion will include the situation at the Zaporizhzhia nuclear plant and the presence of IAEA experts at other sites in Ukraine.

It is important to note the lasting impacts of the Chernobyl nuclear disaster in the 1980s, which continue to be felt to this day. Hundreds of thousands of square kilometers in Russia, Belarus, and Ukraine remain contaminated, with an approximately 30-kilometer exclusion zone around the Chernobyl plant remaining uninhabitable. The disaster initially faced denial from Soviet authorities, underscoring the crucial need for transparency and accountability in nuclear safety.

As tensions persist between Russia and Ukraine, the international community must remain vigilant and prioritize nuclear safety in order to prevent any potential catastrophe.