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IAEA Board Censures Grid Strikes as Nuclear Safety Threat as U.S. Votes No for First Time

The non-binding resolution exposes a deepening diplomatic split.

Overview

  • The 35‑nation board adopted the CanadaNetherlands text by 20 votes to 10 with 4 against, with the United States joining Russia, China and Niger in opposition.
  • The resolution says attacks on energy infrastructure that supplies off‑site power to nuclear plants, including the Zaporizhzhia facility, constitute a direct threat to nuclear safety and security.
  • The United States argued the measure was unnecessary and would not help achieve peace, marking Washington’s first vote against an IAEA Ukraine resolution.
  • Ukraine welcomed the decision and pressed for accountability measures, calling the strikes “nuclear terrorism” and urging sanctions, including against Rosatom, alongside strengthened air defenses.
  • Russia condemned the text as politicized and blamed Ukrainian actions; diplomats and officials noted the resolution carries no legal force as IAEA monitoring missions in Ukraine continue.