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Rafael Mariano Grossi

Rafael Mariano Grossi

Director General, International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA)

Appears in 2 stories

Stories

Russia’s winter energy war on Ukraine’s grid

Force in Play

Director General, International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) - Brokers unprecedented localized ceasefire for emergency nuclear safety repairs after 12th ZNPP blackout

Since October 2022, Russia has waged a parallel war on Ukraine's electricity, heating and transport systems, launching repeated waves of missiles and drones at power plants, high-voltage substations, rail hubs and ports. The campaign has dramatically intensified in the winter of 2025–26, with near-daily massive barrages destroying 70% of Ukraine's generating capacity and forcing the government to declare a formal energy emergency on January 15, 2026. The grid now meets only 60% of national electricity needs, leaving millions without heat or power amid temperatures as low as minus 20°C.

Updated Jan 21

Russia tries to break Ukraine’s winter: Odesa blacked out after 450-drone barrage

Built World

Director General, International Atomic Energy Agency - Warning that grid damage increases nuclear safety risks

Russia didn’t just strike Ukraine overnight. It tried to turn the lights off on a whole region. Ukrainian officials say more than 450 drones and about 30 missiles slammed energy and port infrastructure, pushing Odesa and surrounding areas into blackout.

Updated Dec 13, 2025