IAEA expresses concern over drone activity near Ukrainian nuclear plants

International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) Director General Rafael Grossi expressed deep concern regarding an escalation of military activities near Ukrainian nuclear power plants. IAEA teams reported more than 160 drone sightings in the vicinity of nuclear facilities, including areas near the Chernobyl and Rivne plants, between May 13 and 14. While no direct impact on nuclear safety has been confirmed, Grossi called for maximum restraint from all parties involved. Separately, the Russian administration at the Zaporizhzhia Nuclear Power Plant reported that two employees were injured after an alleged Ukrainian drone attack on their vehicle 100 meters from the facility's perimeter. Meanwhile, Russian forces conducted significant overnight strikes on Kyiv and other regions using drones and missiles, resulting in reports of casualties. These events highlight the increasing proximity of conflict-related military operations to critical nuclear infrastructure.