The International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) has reported that the Russian occupiers have put the fifth power unit of the Zaporizhzhia Nuclear Power Plant (ZNPP) into a «cold shutdown» mode. This decision was made in order to carry out repairs that are possible only in this mode.

This change in the status of the fifth power unit took place on July 28, just three days after the fourth unit was put into hot shutdown mode. Steam from the fourth unit is used to treat wastewater at the plant, while the remaining units remain in a cold state.

At the same time, the IAEA experts urged Zaporizhzhya NPP employees to consider all possible options for installing an external boiler to produce the necessary steam, which would allow all power units to be put into cold shutdown mode.

The agency representatives noted that during the IAEA team's visit to ZNPP, an inspection of the reactor vessel, spent fuel pool and steam generator showed that all equipment was in good condition and no mines or explosives were found. However, the last time the experts heard single detonations, some of them at a considerable distance from the plant.

In June, the SNRIU issued an order to put the fifth power unit of Zaporizhzhia NPP into a "cold shutdown" state, but the occupiers refused to comply with it. This creates a real risk of insufficient cooling water supply to the plant after the Kakhovka reservoir is actually gone.

President of Ukraine Volodymyr Zelenskyy previously stated that there was information and evidence that Russia was preparing a terrorist attack on the Zaporizhzhia nuclear power plant. According to reports, the Russian invaders have placed explosive devices on the outer roof of the plant's third and fourth power units, which poses a serious threat to the safety of the plant and the region as a whole.

The situation at Zaporizhzhya NPP remains under the supervision of IAEA experts who are closely monitoring the developments and potential threats. Any further problems or incidents at the plant could have very serious consequences for both Ukraine and the entire region. Further steps and response at the international level will be crucial to prevent potential disasters and maintain the safety of energy facilities.