Ukraine, IAEA sign key nuclear safety deal at conference in Rome

Ukraine’s Energy Minister Herman Halushchenko and International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) Director General Rafael Grossi signed a Memorandum of Understanding on July 10, marking a significant step in strengthening Ukraine’s energy security and nuclear safety.

The agreement was formalised during the Ukraine Recovery Conference held in Rome, with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy in attendance, Caliber.Az reports, citing foreign media.

According to the Ukrainian president’s press service, the memorandum outlines increased cooperation between the IAEA and the Ukrainian government in efforts to safeguard and modernise the country’s nuclear energy infrastructure amid ongoing recovery efforts.

At a bilateral meeting held earlier that day, President Zelenskyy stressed the importance of protecting Ukraine’s nuclear facilities, calling them essential to the country’s overall resilience and national security.

“In the face of ongoing threats, protecting nuclear energy infrastructure is critically important for Ukraine’s resilience and security,” Zelenskyy said.

The IAEA will serve as a guarantor of safety in the construction of new power units at the Khmelnytskyi Nuclear Power Plant, as outlined in the agreement. Additionally, the document provides for the agency’s support in developing Ukraine’s domestic uranium sector, including exploration, extraction, and production—an area of growing strategic importance as the country works to reduce its dependence on foreign energy sources.

The deal reflects Ukraine’s broader efforts to rebuild and fortify its energy infrastructure under international oversight and support.

By Sabina Mammadli