IAEA records loss of external power supply to Chernobyl after night-time attack by Russian Federation

The Chernobyl nuclear power plant lost its external power supply as a result of a combined attack by Russian troops on the night of 20 January. This was reported by the International Atomic Energy Agency. According to the agency's director general, Rafael Grossi, several Ukrainian power substations that are critical to nuclear safety were damaged during large-scale military activity, DW reports.

The IAEA noted that, along with the Chernobyl Nuclear Power Plant, power lines supplying other nuclear power plants were also damaged. The agency continues to monitor the situation to assess the possible consequences for nuclear safety and the stability of the power supply system.

Ukrainian Foreign Minister Andriy Sybiga said that Russian troops are systematically attacking energy infrastructure, deliberately creating risks for nuclear facilities. According to him, despite Moscow's public statements about the importance of safety, strikes on substations directly threaten the Chernobyl and other nuclear power plants. Ukraine has called on the IAEA Board of Governors to respond urgently and consider Russia's presence in the agency's governing bodies.

During the night attack on 20 January, Russian troops used 34 missiles of various types and 339 strike drones. The main target of the attack was the Kyiv region. Air defence forces destroyed 342 air targets, but five missiles and 24 drones were recorded hitting 11 locations in at least seven regions of Ukraine. The day before, the Ukrainian authorities warned of preparations for strikes on facilities related to the energy supply of nuclear power plants.

IAEA, Grossi, Sybyga, MFA, Ukraine