The Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Ukraine has reacted to the rotation of IAEA experts at the Zaporizhzhia Nuclear Power Plant, which is located in temporarily occupied territory by Russia.

The ministry condemned these actions as violations of Ukraine's sovereignty and territorial integrity, asserting they are a result of Russian coercion.

Ukraine Submits Protest Note to IAEA

The Ministry views the actions of the IAEA not merely as a rotation of experts, but rather as a humanitarian evacuation due to threats to the safety and health of personnel.

Officials stated that Russia deliberately obstructs the work of international organizations, forcing them to violate Ukrainian law and bilateral agreements.

“Russia effectively forced IAEA personnel to remain at the station without rotation for over 80 days, subjecting them to unprecedented psychological pressure in a high-risk zone,” the statement read.

The Ministry reminded that Ukraine has repeatedly proposed a safe and legal route for rotation through controlled territory, but Russia refused to provide security guarantees.

“The Kremlin has intentionally blocked the safe exit of specialists through Ukrainian-controlled territory, compelling the agency to agree to Russian terms,” the Ministry emphasized.

Kyiv has sent an official protest note to the IAEA, condemning the violations of its sovereignty and territorial integrity by the organization's personnel.

IAEA Conducts Rotation at Zaporizhzhia NPP via Occupied Territories

Reports have surfaced that the IAEA has conducted its personnel rotation at Zaporizhzhia NPP through occupied territories for the first time.

“What seemed impossible just a few days ago has happened. The IAEA transferred its personnel to the Zaporizhzhia NPP through territory occupied by Russia without Ukraine's consent,” journalist Rikard Jozwiak wrote on social media.

Russian media reported on the IAEA rotation, citing statements from Rosatom, claiming it occurred under the protection of Russian military forces.

“Among the 27-member team of IAEA observers, there are three inspectors. Their task remains to monitor and assess the safety status of the station,” Russian news agency Interfax quoted.

The exact date of the rotation has not been specified.