This article discusses the lack of response from the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) to Russia’s occupation and attack on Ukraine‘s Chornobyl nuclear plant. The IAEA, led by Director General Rafael Grossi, was criticized for not condemning Russia by name despite clear evidence of Russian involvement.
The article suggests that the IAEA’s measured response may be due to its relationship with Russia as a major donor and the presence of Mikhail Chudakov, a Russian deputy director general who has prior professional associations with Rosatom, the Russian state-owned nuclear energy giant. This raises concerns about conflicts of interest and Chudakov’s access to classified information.
The article also highlights the ignorance displayed by Russian soldiers during their occupation of Chornobyl, including their delusions about the plant’s operations and their attempts to recruit Ukrainian workers as collaborators. Despite this, Russia continues to occupy Europe’s largest nuclear plant in Ukraine’s Zaporizhzhia Oblast, raising concerns about nuclear blackmail and the effectiveness of international institutions.
The author notes that Russia’s continued membership in organizations like the United Nations and the IAEA raises doubts about their integrity and ability to prevent conflicts. The article concludes by warning that Russia’s nuclear threats serve as a stark “warning for the future” in an increasingly conflict-ridden world.