yunhap news
Ukraine and Russia both expressed interest in the IAEA (International Atomic Energy Agency) proposal to designate a protected area around the Zaporiza nuclear power plant, where fear of a ‘nuclear accident’ is growing.
IAEA Secretary-General Rafael Grossi held a press conference on the 12th (local time) and said, “I have officially proposed to the two countries to immediately stop bombardment and to designate nuclear safety and the area around the nuclear power plant as a protected area.”
When asked by reporters on the progress of negotiations between Ukraine and Russia on the proposal, he said, “we have seen signs that the two countries are interested in an agreement.” He further explained that he was discussing the size of the reserve and the role of IAEA officials. Currently, two IAEA officials are stationed at the nuclear power plant.
When asked if the proposal was for a ‘truce’ rather than a withdrawal of military equipment or troops, Grosi said, “It is a proposal that includes a ceasefire.”
Meanwhile, Russia and Ukraine are blaming each other for the bombardment near the nuclear power plant. The recent bombardment destroyed facilities near six nuclear reactors of the nuclear power plant, and the power transmission line essential for cooling the facility was cut off, raising concerns about meltdown. Meltdown is a phenomenon in which the cooling system of a nuclear reactor is stopped and the core of a nuclear reactor is melted.