IAEA: over two days, more than 160 Russian drones near the South Ukraine, Rivne and Chernobyl nuclear power plants

During 13–14 May, more than 160 Russian drones were recorded near Ukrainian nuclear power plants: this includes areas near the South Ukraine, Rivne and Chernobyl NPPs, the IAEA reported.

The agency informed about increased hostile drone activity around nuclear facilities in a statement published on the social network X, adding that monitoring continues and observation teams are working on the ground at the link.

IAEA teams on site did not find signs of damage to critical infrastructure or failures of power units, so no direct consequences for nuclear safety have been recorded at this time.

At the same time, the agency stressed that the concentration of military activity near nuclear facilities causes serious concern and requires the utmost caution by all parties.

“IAEA Director General Rafael Grossi expresses deep concern about such military activity near nuclear power plants and again emphasizes the need for full observance of the 7 most important principles for ensuring nuclear safety during conflict. Director General Grossi also again calls for maximum restraint to avoid the risk of a nuclear accident“, the IAEA said.

Earlier we reported:

• Strike on the Chernobyl NPP has consequences: damaged containment threatens collapse of the sarcophagus
• South Ukraine NPP lost access to one of its transmission lines due to shelling
• Nuclear safety at risk: a Russian drone exploded 800 metres from the South Ukraine NPP
• IAEA inspected the Chernobyl NPP after a drone strike: is there a threat?
• During the mass attack, Russia attempted to disrupt the operation of Ukrainian NPPs – IAEA