Zelenskiy to Meet IAEA Chief After Crucial Zaporizhzhia Nuclear Plant Visit

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy plans to meet with International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) Chief Rafael Grossi in Kyiv. The meeting follows Grossi's visit to the Zaporizhzhia nuclear plant, currently under Russian control. The plant's instability and repeated shelling accusations between Russia and Ukraine highlight the critical nature of the meeting.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy announced a scheduled meeting with Rafael Grossi, the Director of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), in Kyiv. This follows Grossi's planned visit to the Zaporizhzhia nuclear plant, which has been under Russian control since the early days of the Ukrainian conflict in 2022.

The Zaporizhzhia plant, the largest nuclear facility in Europe, has experienced frequent accusations of shelling by both Ukrainian and Russian forces. Both sides deny these allegations, adding to the plant's precarious status. Despite the plant being in 'cold shutdown,' its control remains a contentious issue for both nations.

During a visit to Zaporizhzhia, located northeast of the plant, Zelenskiy reiterated his call for more long-range weaponry from Western allies. He acknowledged the challenges Ukraine faces in regaining control of the plant, citing battlefield dangers. Additionally, reports emerged of a high-voltage power line disconnection at the plant, although its immediate needs are being met by an alternative power source.

(With inputs from agencies.)