Madam Chairperson,

Ukraine aligns itself with the statement delivered earlier by Poland on behalf of the European Union. In our national capacity I would like to add the following remarks.

Ukraine expresses gratitude to the Director General for presenting the Nuclear Security Review 2025 (GOV/2025/6). This document serves as a crucial mechanism for assessing the current state of nuclear security frameworks worldwide and determining further steps for their enhancement.

We welcome the IAEA’s commitment to transparency and accountability in the review process. The outcomes of such reviews not only contribute to the continuous improvement of national and international nuclear security measures but also foster a culture of shared responsibility among Member States.

Ukraine highly values the Agency’s activities in providing advisory services, conducting assessment missions, and offering technical assistance programs. The IAEA’s support in strengthening the security of all Ukrainian nuclear facilities, particularly the Zaporizhzhia Nuclear Power Plant (ZNPP), remains of utmost importance.

Madam Chairperson,

The Nuclear Security Review 2025 highlights the persistent and evolving threats to nuclear security, particularly in conflict-affected regions. Ukraine remains at the frontline of these challenges, with its nuclear infrastructure facing unprecedented risks. The report acknowledges the need for greater coordination and technical assistance to mitigate nuclear security risks arising from armed conflicts and unlawful occupation.

The illegal presence and control over nuclear facilities create significant risks, including potential accidents, breaches of security protocols, and the intentional misuse of nuclear materials. Such actions pose threats not only to local populations but also to global nuclear security.

Russia’s continued occupation of the ZNPP endangers nuclear security on multiple levels. The forced disruption of regular safety inspections, the lack of access to necessary maintenance create an alarming situation. It is obvious that the threat to nuclear security at the ZNPP will persist as long as Russian representatives remain at the site.

Madam Chairperson,

Ukraine acknowledges the IAEA's latest initiatives in nuclear security, including the development of the Nuclear Security Detection Architecture and the Agency’s efforts to enhance nuclear forensics capabilities. The improved coordination in responding to nuclear security events, is a crucial step toward strengthening global nuclear security frameworks. We particularly support the expansion of regional nuclear security networks and the increased focus on practical cooperation in detecting and preventing illicit nuclear material trafficking.

Furthermore, we recognize the significance of the IAEA’s efforts in developing nuclear security guidance, including the updates to regulatory frameworks and technical recommendations presented in the report. Ukraine supports the further expansion of international cooperation in nuclear security, particularly in addressing cybersecurity threats to nuclear facilities. Ukraine underscores the importance of these efforts, as it has repeatedly faced Russian cyberattacks on critical infrastructure, including the energy sector. These attacks have demonstrated the urgent need for enhanced cybersecurity measures to protect nuclear facilities from potential breaches and disruptions.

Ukraine remains committed to strengthening nuclear security and calls on the international community to support the IAEA’s efforts in addressing emerging threats, including those arising from armed conflicts and cyberattacks. Ensuring the protection of nuclear facilities and materials requires collective action and strict adherence to international norms. We will continue working with the Agency and our partners to uphold global nuclear security and stability.

 

Thank you, Madam Chairperson.