Statement by Ambassador KAIFU Atsushi at the IAEA Board of Governors Meeting starting on Monday, 7 September 2026 Item 7: Nuclear Safety, Security and Safeguards in Ukraine
2026/9/10
Thank you, Chair.
Japan remains seriously concerned about nuclear safety and security in Ukraine amidst the ongoing war of aggression. The latest DG report further highlights the precarious situation across Ukraine’s nuclear sites.
The situation at the Zaporizhzhya Nuclear Power Plant (ZNPP) is particularly alarming. The abnormalcy that should intrinsically only be exceptional, such as losses of off-site power and the recent prolonged reliance on emergency diesel generators, is persisting. It is deeply troubling. Japan welcomes the establishment of the seventh IAEA-brokered localized ceasefire arrangement and the successful repair of the damaged power line this week, and highly appreciates the DG’s leadership and the Agency’s strenuous efforts. Yet the very fact that such emergency arrangements must be negotiated repeatedly is a stark reminder of the fragility of nuclear safety and security. Temporary measures cannot substitute for reliable off-site power and stable conditions for safe operation.
These risks are not confined to the ZNPP. Military activities have continued in close proximity to nuclear sites across Ukraine and have affected critical energy infrastructure essential for nuclear safety and security. Japan therefore calls for maximum military restraint and full adherence to the “Seven Indispensable Pillars” and “Five Concrete Principles”.
Against this backdrop, Japan once again pays tribute to the dedication and professionalism of all IAEA staff serving in Ukraine and strongly emphasizes that ensuring their physical safety is of paramount importance. Any actions that threaten their safety are unacceptable.
Chair,
Japan expresses its grave concern over the fact that the Russian Federation has not heeded the resolutions of the IAEA Board and GC. Ukraine’s ZNPP should be returned to the full control of the Ukrainian authorities. Japan stands in steadfast solidarity with Ukraine and reaffirms its unwavering support for Ukraine’s sovereignty, independence, and territorial integrity within its internationally recognized borders.
Finally, Japan will continue to strongly support the Agency’s vital work in Ukraine together with like-minded Member States.
Thank you, Chair.
Japan remains seriously concerned about nuclear safety and security in Ukraine amidst the ongoing war of aggression. The latest DG report further highlights the precarious situation across Ukraine’s nuclear sites.
The situation at the Zaporizhzhya Nuclear Power Plant (ZNPP) is particularly alarming. The abnormalcy that should intrinsically only be exceptional, such as losses of off-site power and the recent prolonged reliance on emergency diesel generators, is persisting. It is deeply troubling. Japan welcomes the establishment of the seventh IAEA-brokered localized ceasefire arrangement and the successful repair of the damaged power line this week, and highly appreciates the DG’s leadership and the Agency’s strenuous efforts. Yet the very fact that such emergency arrangements must be negotiated repeatedly is a stark reminder of the fragility of nuclear safety and security. Temporary measures cannot substitute for reliable off-site power and stable conditions for safe operation.
These risks are not confined to the ZNPP. Military activities have continued in close proximity to nuclear sites across Ukraine and have affected critical energy infrastructure essential for nuclear safety and security. Japan therefore calls for maximum military restraint and full adherence to the “Seven Indispensable Pillars” and “Five Concrete Principles”.
Against this backdrop, Japan once again pays tribute to the dedication and professionalism of all IAEA staff serving in Ukraine and strongly emphasizes that ensuring their physical safety is of paramount importance. Any actions that threaten their safety are unacceptable.
Chair,
Japan expresses its grave concern over the fact that the Russian Federation has not heeded the resolutions of the IAEA Board and GC. Ukraine’s ZNPP should be returned to the full control of the Ukrainian authorities. Japan stands in steadfast solidarity with Ukraine and reaffirms its unwavering support for Ukraine’s sovereignty, independence, and territorial integrity within its internationally recognized borders.
Finally, Japan will continue to strongly support the Agency’s vital work in Ukraine together with like-minded Member States.
Thank you, Chair.