The IAEA requests full access to verify the possible placement of explosives at the Zaporizhia plant

MADRID, 5 Jul. (EUROPA PRESS) -

The International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) has stated that it has not detected "visible signs" of the placement of mines or other explosives at the Zaporizhia nuclear power plant, as denounced by the Ukrainian authorities, but has demanded access to the roofs of the reactors where, according to Kiev, devices would have been installed with which to simulate a bombing of the facilities.

The governments of Russia and Ukraine have exchanged accusations in recent hours about an imminent provocation at the aforementioned power station, considered the largest in Europe. The IAEA has confirmed in a statement that it is aware of this information, which for now cannot be completely confirmed or denied despite having a permanent presence.

International experts have not detected anything suspicious in their routine walks through the plant, although the agency's general director, Rafael Grossi, has confirmed that they have already requested access to the roofs of reactors three and four. They consider it "essential" to examine these areas, as well as the turbine rooms and some areas that house the refrigeration system.

"With tension and military activities increasing in the region (...), our experts must be able to verify the facts on the ground. Their independent and objective reports would help clarify the current situation, something crucial at a time when there are unconfirmed complaints and counter-complaints," Grossi explained.

The IAEA has unsuccessfully asked the parties for an agreement to establish a security zone around the plant, in such a way that any risk of a nuclear accident can be avoided. Ukraine's President Volodimir Zelensky has repeatedly claimed that Russia is using its control of the plant as "blackmail."