The United Nations’ nuclear watchdog, the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), is actively negotiating with Ukraine and Russia to establish localized ceasefires aimed at restoring external power to the Zaporizhzhia Nuclear Power Plant in Ukraine. According to two anonymous diplomats familiar with the discussions, the plant, which is Europe’s largest, has been operating on diesel generators since September 23 after its last external power line was severed. The facility, currently under Russian control, is not operational but requires consistent power to cool its six shutdown reactors and spent fuel, preventing potential nuclear disasters. The IAEA has repeatedly raised concerns about the precarious situation at the plant. The proposed plan involves a two-phase approach to repair damaged power lines. The first phase would establish a 1.5-kilometer ceasefire zone to repair the Dniprovska 750-kilovolt line, located in Russian-controlled territory. The second phase would focus on repairing the Ferosplavna-1 330-kilovolt backup line in Ukrainian-controlled territory. IAEA experts would oversee the repairs, initially scheduled for October 11-17. However, while Ukraine has provided guarantees for safe passage, Russia has yet to do so, delaying the process. A Russian diplomat stated that preparations are underway, and repairs could commence soon. IAEA Director General Rafael Grossi has been engaging intensively with both sides to prevent a nuclear accident. The plant has experienced ten blackouts since the war began, with the latest being the longest. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy accused Russia of lacking interest in restoring safety, emphasizing the need for international pressure.
The UN nuclear watchdog seeks a local truce to restore power to the Zaporizhzhia plant
