MOSCOW: Russian Defence Minister Sergei Shoigu on September 2 explained how Ukrainian forces have been attacking the Zaporizhzhia nuclear power plant with artillery and suicide drones during the past months, and that Ukraine should be 'entirely responsible' for any possible emergencies at the plant.
Shoigu made the comments a day after an IAEA team led by its Director General Rafael Grossi arrived at the plant for an on-site inspection. Ukrainian forces even fired shells at not only the plant, but also the the route of movement of the members of the mission on the day, according to Shoigu.
He also openly declared that Russian military has no heavy weapons on the territory of the nuclear power plant and in the surrounding areas and refuted Ukraine's claim that Russian artillery is shelling Ukrainian positions from the plant as lies.
Russian forces took control of Zaporizhzhia nuclear power plant soon after military conflict started in late February and Ukrainian technical staff continue to work at the site to maintain its operation.
The plant and surrounding areas have been attacked several times by shelling and drone strikes, and Russia and Ukraine have been trading blames for these incidents.
Zaporizhzhia nuclear power plant is currently the largest nuclear power station in Europe. Experts and local residents fear that repeated attacks may turn Zaporizhzhia into a second Chernobyl.
Rafael Grossi said that the physical integrity of the plant has been violated and that it is unacceptable the plant has been repeatedly under attack. He also said he is deeply worried about the military situation in the region affecting the safety and security of the plant.