IAEA Warns Drones Near Ukraine Nuclear Plant Safety Risk

A drone was destroyed about 800 metres from the South Ukraine nuclear power plant, the UN atomic watchdog, IAEA, reported. Rafael Grossi, the IAEA director general, warned that drones flying close to nuclear facilities pose serious safety risks. Monitors observed 22 drones near the plant late Wednesday and early Thursday, with some flying as close as 500 metres. Gunfire and explosions were heard around 1 am. When IAEA monitors visited the site near Pivdennoukrainsk in the Mykolaiv region, they found a 4-square-metre crater. Nearby metal structures were damaged, vehicle windows shattered, and a power line fell, though it was not connected to the plant. Fortunately, no damage occurred to the plant itself. Grossi emphasized the danger, warning that future incidents could be worse.

Power Cut at Russian-Held Zaporizhzhia Plant

The IAEA also reported that the Zaporizhzhia nuclear plant, under Russian control, had lost external power for more than 48 hours. The lines supply electricity essential for cooling reactors and preventing meltdowns. Emergency diesel generators were operating to maintain safety. This marks the 10th time in the conflict that external lines to the plant have been disrupted. The IAEA continues to monitor the situation closely to prevent any nuclear accidents.

OSCE Reports Russian PoW Violations

The Organisation for Security and Cooperation in Europe (OSCE) released a report accusing Russia of widespread and systematic violations of international law concerning Ukrainian prisoners of war. The violations include arbitrary killings, torture, denial of fair trial rights, and unsafe detention and transfer conditions. The OSCE mission found that Russia does not recognise Ukrainian soldiers as prisoners of war, exposing them to criminal prosecution merely for participating in hostilities. Arbitrary killings and executions were documented both on the battlefield and in detention.

Russia Accuses West, UK Rejects Claim

Russia’s Foreign Minister, Sergei Lavrov, accused NATO and the EU of using Ukraine to wage a “real war” against Russia during a UN speech. He claimed the crisis in Ukraine was provoked by the West. UK Foreign Secretary Yvette Cooper sharply rejected Lavrov’s statements, calling them “false fantasy world distortions” and reaffirming Russia’s unprovoked aggression against Ukraine.

US Approves Missile Sale to Germany

The US announced a $1.23 billion sale of up to 400 advanced air-to-air missiles to NATO ally Germany. The Defence Security Cooperation Agency said the sale would improve Germany’s ability to address current and future threats. German Chancellor Friedrich Merz emphasized the need for effective deterrence against Russian airspace violations. In recent weeks, Russian jets and drones have entered the airspace of Poland, Romania, Denmark, Norway, and Germany, raising security concerns.

Russian Attacks Disrupt Ukraine Power Supply

Russian strikes on Thursday caused power outages for at least 70,000 people in Ukraine’s Chernihiv region. About 29,000 consumers lost power in the region and 43,000 in the town of Nizhyn. In Vinnytsia, energy facilities were also targeted, causing fires and disrupting electricity. Repairs were underway, but the attacks highlight ongoing threats to Ukraine’s energy infrastructure, especially with winter approaching.

Germany Proposes Using Frozen Russian Assets

German Chancellor Merz suggested the EU should unlock up to €140 billion of frozen Russian assets to finance Ukraine’s war effort. This proposal would provide interest-free loans to Ukraine until Russia pays war reparations. The plan aims to offer long-term support without violating property rights. Merz’s proposal is the first public expression of support at this level from Germany for using frozen Russian assets in this way.

Zelenskyy Pushes Drone and Tech Exports

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy met with top US companies including Amazon, Bank of America, and Westinghouse to discuss expanding technology partnerships. Zelenskyy highlighted Ukraine’s strong drone manufacturing industry and over 300 technology companies. He plans to open exports of new technologies to reliable partner countries, boosting Ukraine’s economy and international trade opportunities.

Zelenskyy Commits to Leaving Office After War

Zelenskyy also confirmed he would be ready to leave office once the war ends. Responding to criticism over suspended elections during wartime, he said his focus is finishing the war, not remaining in power. Zelenskyy warned the Kremlin that Moscow could become a target if the invasion continues, advising Russian officials to consider bomb shelters.