Europe’s largest nuclear plant has come under repeated shelling in recent weeks, sparking fears of a potential nuclear disaster.   

Highlighting his continued concern over the situation, the UN chief again warned that any damage to Zaporizhzhia, or any other nuclear facility in Ukraine, could result in a wide-reaching catastrophe.  

“All steps must be taken to avoid such a scenario. Common sense and cooperation must guide the way forward. Any action that might endanger the physical integrity, safety or security of the nuclear plant is unacceptable,” he said. 

Demilitarized perimeter 
The Secretary-General stressed that efforts to re-establish the plant as purely civilian infrastructure are vital. 

“As a first step, Russian and Ukrainian forces must commit not to engage in any military activity towards the plant site or from the plant site. The Zaporizhzhia facility and its surroundings must not be a target or a platform for military operations,” he said. 

The second step would entail securing an agreement on a demilitarized perimeter. 

“Specifically, that would include a commitment by Russian forces to withdraw all military personnel and equipment from that perimeter and a commitment by Ukrainian forces not to move into it. Operators at the plant must be able to carry out their responsibilities, and communications must be maintained”. 

The Secretary-General called for a commitment to supporting inspectors from the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) stationed at the plant. 

Following months of negotiations, a 14-member team from the nuclear watchdog arrived there last week.  Two will remain at the site, which has been under Russian control since the early days of the conflict. 

“I trust that the IAEA experts now deployed to Zaporizhzhia will be able to carry out their work without hindrance and contribute to ensuring lasting nuclear safety and security at the plant.  All of us have a stake in the success of their critical mission,” he said. (ILKHA)