IAEA Director General Rafael Grossi emphasized the importance of international cooperation for ensuring nuclear safety and noted the contribution of Ukrainian specialists under the extremely challenging conditions of war.
This is reported by Finway
International support and challenges for the Ukrainian nuclear industry
During the International Chernobyl Conference on Recovery and Nuclear Safety, Grossi reminded attendees of the historical significance of the events of 1986. He pointed out that the Chernobyl disaster was a catalyst for the beginning of global cooperation in the field of nuclear safety, which has continued for decades. He specifically highlighted that just two weeks after the accident, the IAEA began its engagement with Chernobyl, initiating a permanent collaboration.
“That terrible day also marked the beginning of a global movement towards cooperation, international cooperation. Just two weeks after the accident, my predecessor and the IAEA began an interaction that became permanent with Chernobyl. Today, as the President and other speakers before me have noted, we have an example. We honor those who gave their lives. But let me add words of gratitude to all the workers in the Ukrainian nuclear sector,” Grossi emphasized.
Grossi stressed that today Ukraine remains critically dependent on nuclear energy – over 60% of the electricity in the country is generated at nuclear power plants. He acknowledged the heroism of Ukrainian specialists who, despite military actions, attacks, and power supply disruptions, ensure the stable operation of the energy system.
New threats and the role of the IAEA in ensuring safety
The head of the IAEA reminded that the events of April 26, 1986, left a deep mark on world history, and the first footage from the site of the tragedy became a symbol of the dangers of nuclear disasters. According to him, it was after this accident that systematic interaction began between countries and international organizations, including the IAEA, which has been working in Chernobyl for decades.
Grossi recalled the special period of 2022, when during the full-scale invasion of Russia, the IAEA flag was alongside Ukrainian flags at all nuclear facilities. He emphasized that the international community is documenting every instance of attacks and disruptions at nuclear power plants, while Ukrainian specialists continue to fulfill their duties despite immense pressure.
There was also a specific mention of the rise of new threats to nuclear safety. In particular, Grossi spoke about a recent drone strike on the infrastructure of the Chernobyl Nuclear Power Plant, highlighting the vulnerability of even large protective facilities. He stressed that in response to these challenges, the international community is committed to continuously working to ensure safety and support Ukraine.
As part of the conference, a new permanent exhibition of the National Museum “Chernobyl” titled “Chernobyl: People and Meanings” was also opened, attended by President Volodymyr Zelensky and Rafael Grossi.