Nuclear watchdog sees deal ‘soon’ on securing Ukraine nuclear plant

Russia and Ukraine are "making headway" on a deal to stop shelling around Europe's largest nuclear power plant, with an agreement expected "soon," according to International Atomic Energy Agency Director General Rafael Mariano Grossi.

The UN nuclear safety watchdog has been trying for months to broker a deal for a safety zone around the Zaporizhzhia nuclear plant — currently occupied by Russian troops but still staffed by Ukrainian employees.

"Although the plant itself has been relatively quiet in recent weeks after it came under intense shelling about a month ago, the clear sound of military activity can still be heard in the vicinity of the facility, underlining persistent nuclear safety and security risks," the IAEA said on December 23 in its latest update, Politico reports.

On December 22, Grossi met in Moscow with the head of Russia's Rosatom, which has taken over the running of Zaporizhzhia. He has also met with Ukrainian officials.

"The consultations with both sides will continue in the near future," the agency added.

The Ukrainian government opposes any step that would signal recognition of Russia's presence at the plant.

Last week, German Galushchenko, Ukraine's energy minister, called on allied countries to supply Ukraine with advanced air defense systems to counter Russian strikes targeting energy infrastructure and for an expansion of the IAEA's onsite safety mission.

Zaporizhzhia is not currently generating electricity for Ukraine's grid. External power lines provide electricity for "essential nuclear safety and security functions," while mobile diesel generators and boilers provide heat for employees and emergency backup power, the IAEA said.