A new contingent of international observers, comprising specialists from Argentina, Romania, and Canada, has commenced their duties at the Rivne Nuclear Power Plant (NPP). This follows the completion of a three-week mission by a previous team from Nigeria, Armenia, Poland, and Namibia, who have now transitioned out.
During an initial meeting with the plant’s management and officials from the State Nuclear Regulatory Inspectorate, the new experts acquainted themselves with the current status of the Rivne NPP’s power units. They engaged in discussions surrounding pressing issues of nuclear and radiation safety, particularly in the context of ongoing martial law, while also reviewing the findings shared by their predecessors.
The administration of the Rivne NPP and representatives from the State Nuclear Regulatory Inspectorate expressed their gratitude towards the outgoing team for their professionalism and unwavering support throughout their mission. Valerii Kovalchuk, who serves as the Deputy Chief Engineer for Technology and Engineering, alongside Volodymyr Krasnoshchochenko, Head of the State Nuclear Regulatory Inspectorate at the Rivne NPP, and Ihor Savchuk, who leads the Department of International Cooperation and Technical Assistance, recognized the significant contributions made by the IAEA mission to enhance safety protocols.
In turn, the international experts commended the staff at the nuclear power plant for their efficient organizational skills, transparency, and professional quality. They highlighted the positive practices implemented at the facility and acknowledged the resilience and commitment displayed by Ukrainian specialists in maintaining safety standards, even amidst the challenges posed by the current wartime conditions.
Over the upcoming three weeks, this 50th IAEA team is set to monitor adherence to international standards concerning nuclear and radiation safety. Their responsibilities will include supervising the application of the vital seven pillars essential for ensuring nuclear safety and security, as well as assessing the infrastructure conditions at the Rivne NPP.
The continuous presence of the IAEA mission across Ukrainian nuclear facilities serves as a critical mechanism for international oversight, affirming the transparency of Ukraine’s nuclear operations and the high safety levels maintained at its power units. This also underscores Ukraine’s commitment to collaborating with the international community while adhering to the highest standards in nuclear safety. The cooperation demonstrates a hopeful path forward in maintaining safe energy practices during turbulent times.