Stockholm, Sweden – In a significant move to support Ukraine in the face of Russia’s full-scale invasion, the Swedish government has announced a new contribution to the International Atomic Energy Agency’s (IAEA) nuclear safety and security missions in Ukraine.
The decision marks an additional SEK 20 million (approximately EUR 22.5 million) commitment from Sweden to the IAEA’s work in Ukraine, with a focus on supporting the country’s nuclear power plants and Chernobyl site. This increase in support is part of Sweden’s overarching goal of providing humanitarian assistance to those affected by the conflict.
“The IAEA’s work is critical for ensuring the safety of Ukraine’s nuclear power plants,” said Minister for Foreign Affairs Maria Malmer Stenergard. “Our contribution will enable experts to maintain their presence on the ground, improving the protection of personnel and reducing the risk of armed attacks.”
The IAEA has been working closely with Ukrainian authorities since 2022, initiating the Support and Assistance Mission to Zaporizhzhya Nuclear Power Plant (ISAMZ) in response to President Volodymyr Zelenskyy’s request. Since then, similar missions have been launched at Ukraine’s other nuclear power plants, including Rivne, Khmelnitsky, South Ukraine, and Chernobyl.
Sweden’s contribution will primarily support the IAEA’s technical assistance programs, enabling experts to provide professional advice on nuclear safety and security at Ukrainian nuclear power plants. The agency’s total annual expenditure on such programs is approximately EUR 75 million.
In addition to this support, Sweden has established bilateral cooperation with Ukrainian counterparts through its Radiation Safety Authority, in coordination with other donor states and the IAEA. This cooperation is part of Sweden’s broader efforts to address issues related to nuclear safety and security in Ukraine.
By increasing its support for the IAEA’s work in Ukraine, Sweden aims to contribute to the country’s resilience and stability in the face of this ongoing conflict.
Key Facts:
- Sweden has contributed SEK 20 million (approximately EUR 22.5 million) to the IAEA’s nuclear safety and security missions in Ukraine.
- The IAEA’s technical support for Ukraine on nuclear safety and security totals approximately EUR 75 million annually.
- Sweden chairs a working group under President Volodymyr Zelenskyy’s peace plan, addressing issues of nuclear safety and security with other donor states and the IAEA.
In conclusion, Sweden’s additional contribution to the IAEA’s work in Ukraine underscores its commitment to supporting the country’s efforts to maintain nuclear safety and security in the face of ongoing conflict. By working together with international partners, Sweden aims to contribute to a stable and secure future for Ukraine and its people.