IAEA Chief to Inspect Russian Nuclear Plant in Kursk

The International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) announced that its Director-General, Rafael Grossi, will visit the Russian region of Kursk next week to assess the safety of its nuclear power plant. This visit comes amid heightened tensions as Ukrainian forces have launched a counter-offensive, capturing territory in the Kursk border region, raising fears that the ongoing conflict could jeopardize the plant's security. Both Russia and Ukraine have accused each other of potentially weaponizing nuclear facilities, particularly the Zaporizhzhia Nuclear Power Plant, which has been a focal point of concern since the onset of the full-scale invasion. The IAEA has expressed alarm over the proximity of Ukrainian troops to the Kursk nuclear power plant, with Grossi emphasizing the risks posed by military actions in the area. The plant, which houses four reactors, was undergoing upgrades prior to the conflict. In response to the escalating situation, Russian officials have called for international condemnation of Ukraine's actions, warning that any military engagement near the nuclear facility could lead to a catastrophic disaster. The Russian government has attributed a recent drone strike near the plant to Ukrainian forces, further intensifying the blame game between the two nations. As the conflict continues, the governor of Kursk has reported significant evacuations, with plans to relocate 180,000 residents from affected areas. Meanwhile, Ukrainian forces are reportedly facing challenges in training new recruits, complicating their military efforts in the region.