Russia blames Ukraine for attack on IAEA convoy near Zaporizhzhia plant

Russia on Thursday accused Ukraine of launching an attack on a convoy transporting International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) experts near the Zaporizhzhia Nuclear Power Plant, leading to the cancellation of a planned mission rotation.

According to a statement by the National Defense Ministry, the convoy, which included ministry personnel, was struck by artillery and drone attacks near the agreed meeting point.

The ministry claimed Ukrainian forces used artillery and drones, disrupting a planned rotation of inspectors. The convoy, it said, was targeted multiple times, forcing it to turn back.

Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Maria Zakharova said Moscow is committed to ensuring the safety of IAEA experts at the plant despite continued security risks.

She accused Ukrainian forces of “terrorizing” the facility and its surrounding areas, adding that experts on site have confirmed the plant is operating normally.

The Zaporizhzhia Nuclear Power Plant, the largest in Europe, has been under Russian control since March 2022, with both Moscow and Kyiv frequently accusing each other of endangering its safety.

The IAEA has maintained a presence at the site to monitor its security and operational status.

The head of the U.N. nuclear watchdog said intense military activity had prompted the cancelation.​​​​​​​