Russia criticizes IAEA report and European policy regarding Ukraine

Russian officials have issued several criticisms regarding the ongoing conflict in Ukraine and international oversight. Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov stated that Europe seeks to maintain an anti-Russian system and a ‘new Nazi’ regime in Ukraine, asserting that the Russian people cannot accept such an outcome. He noted that while Russia remains open to negotiations, military operations will not cease during such processes.

Regarding nuclear safety, Russian Foreign Ministry spokesperson Maria Zakharova criticized International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) Director General Rafael Grossi. She claimed his report on the Zaporizhzhia Nuclear Power Plant is ‘politically biased’ and fails to hold the Kyiv regime responsible for attacks on the facility’s infrastructure and personnel. Zakharova argued that the report avoids acknowledging the responsibility of the Ukrainian government for the deteriorating situation at the plant.

Additionally, Russian Deputy Foreign Minister Alexander Grushko noted that despite a decrease in volume, Russian liquefied natural gas continues to be sent to the European Union. This comes amid ongoing discussions regarding energy supplies and the historical context of the Nord Stream pipeline explosions.