54 (IAEA) delegations supported Ukrainian statement regarding the threats to nuclear and radiation safety created by russia.
The statement was presented and endorsed at the "IAEA International Conference: Shaping the Future" in Vienna.
"For the first time in history, IAEA member state has deliberately attacked and seized control of peaceful nuclear facilities belonging to another IAEA member state. We condemn russia's seizure and militarization of the ZNPP, which could lead to serious consequences for nuclear safety. russia's deliberate disregard for international law, its presence and actions at the ZNPP, as well as attacks on Ukraine's critical energy infrastructure, continue to endanger Ukraine and the broader region. We call for continued efforts to hold Russia accountable for creating threats to nuclear safety," - the countries that supported the statement emphasized.
Ukrainian Energy Minister German Galushchenko, commenting on the IAEA delegations' decision, noted: "This is another step by the civilized world towards ousting russia from the sphere of nuclear technologies, where it held a leading position even after a brazen crime against the world's nuclear safety. The next step should be sanctions against the nuclear industry of the terrorist country. In addition, russia must comply with the requirements of four IAEA Board of Governors resolutions and the 2023 IAEA General Conference resolution on the immediate withdrawal of russian troops and other unauthorized personnel from the Zaporizhzhia NPP."
The joint statement of the countries also emphasizes the importance of the "seven indispensable pillars for nuclear safety and security during armed conflict," as well as the need to adhere to the five specific principles for the ZNPP, which were announced by the UN Security Council President, taking into account the sovereignty and territorial integrity of Ukraine. In addition, the signatory countries noted the importance of the work of the IAEA and the Agency's Director General Rafael Grossi in preventing a nuclear accident in Ukraine. At the same time, it is emphasized that the war hinders the IAEA's ability to more effectively implement safeguards in Ukraine.
The joint statement was announced by the head of the Ukrainian delegation at the "IAEA International Conference: Shaping the Future," Deputy Minister of Energy of Ukraine Svitlana Hrynchuk.
