IAEA detects no signs of mining at ZNPP but advises citizens "to stay alert"

The International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) experts have found no signs of mining at the Zaporizhzhia Nuclear Power Plant (ZNPP); however, they still call on civilians to "stay alert".

Source: Press office of the International Atomic Energy Agency and Interfax-Ukraine news agency, with reference to the statement of Rafael Grossi, head of the IAEA

Details: According to Grossi, the IAEA experts present at the plant have been inspecting some parts of the facility in recent days and weeks, including some areas around the perimeter of the large cooling pond, as well as conducting regular rounds of the premises, but so far they have not found any visible signs of the presence of mines or explosives.

IAEA experts have requested additional access that is necessary to confirm the absence of explosive substances at the facility. In particular, access to the rooftops of reactor units 3 and 4, as well as access to the turbine halls and some areas of the plant's cooling system. 

According to Grossi, it is necessary to "stay alert". He also promised to regularly report on the situation at the power plant.

Quote: "With military tension and activities increasing in the region where this major nuclear power plant is located, our experts must be able to verify the facts on the ground.  Their independent and objective reporting would help clarify the current situation at the site, which is crucial at a time like this with unconfirmed allegations and counter allegations."

Previously: 

• On 4 July, the Armed Forces of Ukraine warned that the Russians may soon start preparations for provocations at the Zaporizhzhia NPP and placed explosive-like objects on the roofs of two power units.
• As of 5 July, the Zaporizhzhia Nuclear Power Plant is operating normally, and there are no problems with the cooling of the NPP. 

Background: 

• Earlier, President of Ukraine Volodymyr Zelenskyy said that the Russians have approved the scenario of mining the Zaporizhia Nuclear Power Plant (ZNPP).
• In connection with the threat of a disaster at the Zaporizhzhia Nuclear Power Plant, the Ukrainian leader also called on the EU to work on the next package of sanctions and introduce restrictions against the Russian Rosatom company. 

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