MFA of Ukraine welcomes broad international support for the demand to restore Ukrainian control over the Zaporizhzhia Nuclear Power Plant

During the June session of the IAEA Board of Governors, 49 Member States issued a joint statement strongly condemning the russian federation’s illegal occupation of the Zaporizhzhia Nuclear Power Plant (ZNPP) and reaffirming their steadfast support for Ukraine’s sovereignty and territorial integrity.

Notably, Ghana – currently holding the Chair of the IAEA Board of Governors – joined this broad, cross-regional initiative for the first time, thereby ensuring the document’s endorsement by representatives from all continents.

The statement underscores that the russian federation’s continued control over the ZNPP is inconsistent with the fundamental principles of nuclear safety as set out by the IAEA, and poses severe risks to regional and international security. Of particular concern are the ongoing technical degradation of the facility, including power supply disruptions, inadequate maintenance, and restricted access to critical infrastructure.

The Member States unanimously emphasized that any attempt to restart ZNPP reactors prior to the full restoration of Ukrainian control is categorically unacceptable. Restarting operations must only occur following comprehensive demining, a full technical assessment, and certification by the State Nuclear Regulatory Inspectorate of Ukraine, in coordination with the IAEA.

The statement further highlights the necessity of ensuring unimpeded, timely, and safe rotational access for the IAEA Support and Assistance Mission to Zaporizhzhia (ISAMZ), as well as full and unrestricted access for IAEA experts to all key areas of the plant. It is of particular importance that the regular rotation of ISAMZ experts be conducted with full respect for Ukraine’s sovereignty and territorial integrity. Any obstruction of the mission’s activities by the russian federation is firmly condemned.

The States that supported the joint statement also reaffirm the importance of sustained international support for the IAEA’s technical mission in Ukraine, including the continued physical presence of Agency personnel at all nuclear sites across the country.

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Ukraine highly appreciates the consistent and principled position of its international partners and reiterates that the complete restoration of Ukrainian control over the ZNPP is an essential prerequisite for ensuring nuclear safety and security – not only on the territory of Ukraine but across the entire European continent.