IAEA assesses effects of Russian strikes on Ukrainian nuclear power plants

International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) Director General Rafael Mariano Grossi reported the information.

“For a second time in less than two weeks, the Khmelnytskyy, Rivne and South Ukraine NPPs lowered their power levels as a precautionary step during widespread military activities in the country, while air raid alarms sounded at the three sites,” the statement says.

The IAEA reported that nine reactors at Ukrainian nuclear power plants have decreased output. One reactor at the Rivne NPP was disconnected from the grid, and the Khmelnytskyy NPP lost the connection to two of its power lines.

“Ukraine’s energy infrastructure is extremely fragile and vulnerable, putting nuclear safety at great risk,” Director General Grossi said. “Once again, I call for maximum military restraint in areas with major nuclear energy facilities and other sites on which they depend.”

There were no reports of direct damage to the nuclear power plants. However, the strikes affected electrical substations used for transmitting and receiving power off-site. 

• On the night and morning of November 28, Russia launched 188 air targets at Ukraine's territory. Ukrainian air defense forces destroyed 79 missiles and 35 drones.
• The International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) is failing in its role to urgently protect Ukrainian nuclear power plants from Russian missile attacks.