The International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) has successfully conducted its first rotation of inspectors at the Zaporizhzhia Nuclear Power Plant (NPP) without the involvement of Ukrainian authorities, marking a significant development amid the continued tensions surrounding the facility. This rotation was facilitated through routes controlled by Russian forces, following prior postponements due to safety concerns on account of escalated military activity from Ukraine.
On February 12, 2025, the 27th team of IAEA observers, consisting of three inspectors, was able to safely replace its predecessors, largely thanks to what was described as "the selfless and professional work of the servicemen of the Ministry of Defense of Russia and the Rosgvardia," according to reports from Russian military sources. The successful execution of this rotation allowed the inspectors to evaluate the operational and physical safety conditions at the site, which has been under Russian control since March 2022.
The initial schedule for the rotation was set for early February but had to be postponed twice, primarily due to provocations attributed to the Ukrainian Armed Forces. Reports indicated threats including mortar shells and drone attacks directed at the convoy transporting the IAEA experts. The press service at the Zaporizhzhia NPP highlighted, "The rotation had to take place about a month ago, but was postponed due to provocations by the Armed Forces of Ukraine." The successful rotation, which managed to occur without incident, has underscored the operational challenges faced by international organizations attempting to oversee nuclear facilities during wartime.
Rafael Grossi, the Director General of the IAEA, emphasized the agency's commitment amid these challenges: "The agency will continue to support personnel at the ZNPP to operate safely." The backdrop of these recent events speaks to the heightened stakes of nuclear oversight amid military conflict, particularly as control of the Zaporizhzhia NPP remains contested territory.
The significance of this rotation extends beyond simple logistics. It is notable as the route for the IAEA team was entirely restructured to pass through Russian-controlled territory for the very first time. The press office at Zaporizhzhia commented on this strategic maneuver, stating, "Principally, it is important to note, the route passed for the first time through the territory of Russia." This shift not only demonstrates Russia's firm grasp on the region but also raises questions about the influence of geopolitical dynamics on nuclear safety and monitoring efforts.
Negotiations preceding this rotation had been fraught, with numerous consultations occurring throughout February. Meetings included significant talks between leadership from the IAEA and Russia’s state nuclear corporation, Rosatom, illustrating the complex interdependencies at play. Reports of artillery and drone incursions aimed at the IAEA convoy on February 12 underscored the risks faced by the agency’s personnel during these operations.
The Zaporizhzhia NPP has been under Russian administration since early 2022, following Russia's annexation of Crimea and subsequent military actions. The control over this substantial nuclear facility poses serious concerns not just for regional safety but also for international nuclear regulatory frameworks. With inspectors stationed at the NPP since September 2022, the delay and now successful rotation serve as pivotal moments for IAEA's monitoring capabilities.
Reflecting on the precarious situation at Zaporizhzhia, Grossi noted the challenges of determining the origins of missile and drone debris found near the facility, stating he has raised these concerns "at the highest levels" of international dialogue. His remarks highlight the urgency for transparent, safe monitoring predominantly influenced by the political undercurrents surrounding the site.
Finally, the IAEA’s endeavor to maintain oversight amid conflict stands as a rare example of international collaboration within contested spaces. It presents formidable challenges yet also opportunities for dialogue, cooperation, and the pursuit of safety standards. The milestones achieved, such as this rotation, signify renewed commitments from all sides to uphold nuclear security even as military confrontations loom over the region.