Russia Threatens to Expel IAEA Inspectors from Zaporizhzhia Nuclear Plant

On November 14, Russia's Foreign Ministry issued a warning that it could expel International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) inspectors from the occupied Zaporizhzhia Nuclear Power Plant if it deems their activities "inappropriate."

The warning came a day after IAEA Director Rafael Grossi told the German news agency DPA that the agency's monitors would remain at the plant until the war reaches a "frozen" phase.

"We will continue to be there until the conflict comes to a new phase, at least less combat and maybe a ceasefire – no, a frozen conflict, whatever phase we enter into, but without this looming threat," Grossi said.

In response, Russia’s Foreign Ministry emphasized that IAEA experts are allowed at the Zaporizhzhia Nuclear Power Plant (ZNPP) "only with the consent of the government of the Russian Federation." The ministry added that the inspectors’ stay would be permitted "as long as our country considers their stay there to be justified."

The ministry also criticized Grossi’s remarks about a potential halt in hostilities, stating, "It is absolutely unclear on what basis the leadership of the IAEA undertakes to judge the prospects of the notorious 'freeze,' which clearly goes beyond its powers."

The Zaporizhzhia Nuclear Power Plant, the largest nuclear facility in Europe, has been under Russian occupation since March 2022. IAEA teams have been rotating in and out of the plant since September 2022, though Russian authorities continue to deny inspectors full access. Due to its location near the front lines, the plant faces increased nuclear safety risks amid Russia’s ongoing war.