On March 1, 2025, the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) completed its first-ever rotation of inspectors at the Zaporizhzhia Nuclear Power Plant (ZNPP) situated in Ukraine, doing so without prior consent from the Ukrainian government. This unprecedented move marks a significant moment amid the continuing conflict and heightened tensions between Ukraine and Russia.
The rotation involved three IAEA inspectors whose primary responsibilities include monitoring and assessing both the operational and physical safety of the facility. This rotation was initially scheduled for February 2025 but faced delays—specifically twice postponed due to alleged provocations by the Ukrainian military.
What makes this rotation particularly noteworthy is the approved route which traversed entirely through territories controlled by Russia. It is the first time such operations were exclusively conducted on Russian territory, raising serious questions about Ukrainian sovereignty and oversight of the nuclear site. "This is the first time the route has crossed Russian territory," detailed the Telegram channel of the ZNPP management, highlighting the operational changes following the conflict.
The IAEA’s presence at the ZNPP has been steadfast since September 1, 2022, following their initial visit led by Director General Rafael Grossi. Its mission has focused on serving as both a monitoring force yet unfortunately, the station has been rendered non-operational since September 2022, with continuous warfare threatening its stability. Despite this unsettling environment, the inspections are considered pivotal. "Maintaining the inspectors' presence can serve as a deterrent against potential attacks," expressed Grossi during previous comments prior to the rotation.
Negotiations preceding the rotation included consultations between the IAEA and Russia’s state atomic energy corporation Rosatom, indicating attempts to secure the safety of future operations. Reports also claim, "The previous attempts were intentionally sabotaged by Ukraine's military," according to Russian officials, emphasizing the tense dynamics surrounding the facility.
Since the onset of the full-scale invasion by Russian forces on February 24, 2022, the Zaporizhzhia Nuclear Power Plant has been under Russian control, constituting the largest nuclear power station not only within Ukraine but throughout Europe. The situation has led to growing international concerns, particularly as the area frequently faces military engagements.
Commentators fear the potential for disaster looms large. With the ZNPP's operational status remaining cold and empty of energy output since September, any disruption could have catastrophic impacts, especially as the region has faced multiple blackouts, threatening both civilian harm and nuclear security.
The IAEA’s practices come amid repeated requests from various global entities for the demilitarization of the area surrounding the ZNPP and the safe withdrawal of military personnel. The IAEA has repeatedly pressed for immediate steps toward restoring control back to Ukraine, citing the need for safety and transparency at the facility to mitigate risks of nuclear incidents.
This latest rotation, without Ukrainian approval, not only demonstrates the complex political maneuverings at play but raises questions about the future of nuclear safety protocols within conflict zones. The geopolitical consequences remain broad, as countries worldwide observe how the situation at the ZNPP evolves.
The IAEA has yet to comment on the validity of the reports surrounding this recent rotation, and reactions from Ukraine have been silent post-announcement, lending to speculation about their stance on the IAEA’s engagement under these conditions.
Given these developments, the Zaporizhzhia Nuclear Power Plant remains emblematic of the larger conflict at hand, blending themes of nuclear safety, international diplomacy, and the struggles for territorial integrity amid warfare.