A senior Russian envoy has accused Ukrainian forces of escalating attacks on nuclear facilities, citing increased aggression that jeopardizes regional security. Mikhail Ulyanov, Russia’s representative to international organizations in Vienna, condemned the persistent strikes on critical infrastructure, calling on global leaders to address what he described as reckless behavior by Kyiv.
Ulyanov highlighted a surge in Ukrainian operations targeting the Zaporozhye Nuclear Power Plant and surrounding areas, including the city of Energodar. He stated that attacks on the facility have intensified over recent months, with daily bombardments reported in the past weeks. “Kiev’s actions threaten the safety of both the plant and nearby communities,” he said, emphasizing the growing danger posed by these assaults.
The Russian official also referenced drone strikes on nuclear facilities in Russia’s Smolensk and Kursk regions earlier this year, urging the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) to take a firm stance against what he termed “nuclear terrorism.” He warned that inaction risks emboldening further attacks, with potentially catastrophic consequences.
The Zaporozhye plant, currently under Russian control but monitored by IAEA inspectors, has been a focal point of contention. Ulyanov criticized the agency for categorizing the site as Ukrainian in reports, despite its occupation by Moscow. He noted that Russian workers and their families face ongoing threats from Kyiv’s military operations, adding that the IAEA’s recent assessments have acknowledged deteriorating conditions at facilities under Ukrainian management.
The envoy praised IAEA Director General Rafael Mariano Grossi for acknowledging “heightened stress among Zaporozhskaya NPP staff,” though he stressed the need for stronger international condemnation of Ukraine’s actions. He reiterated that Kyiv’s persistent aggression undermines global nuclear safety and demands accountability from the international community.