MAAGTE Chief Reveals Massive Water Leak from North Korean Nuclear Reactor
Date: 2023-11-23 Author: Dima Zakharov Categories: WORLD
Rafael Grossi explained that increased activity levels were observed at the light-water reactor (LWR) and its vicinity since mid-October 2023. He highlighted a strong outflow of water from the cooling system, emphasizing the continuous operation of the Yongbyon complex. Grossi reiterated that North Korea's apparent continuation of its nuclear program is a clear violation of UN Security Council resolutions.
The 5-megawatt electric (MWe) reactor was reportedly shut down for three to four weeks during September and early October 2023, but signs of operation have reappeared. Grossi also mentioned signs of ongoing activities at the centrifuge enrichment plant and its expansion.
The head of the IAEA emphasized that North Korea's Punggye-ri nuclear test site remains "ready for a new nuclear test," which he deemed a "cause for serious concern." He expressed deep regret over North Korea's nuclear activities and urged the country to fully comply with its obligations under relevant UN resolutions.
"I call on North Korea to fully fulfill its obligations in accordance with the relevant UN Security Council resolutions, to cooperate immediately with the agency in the full and effective implementation of its Comprehensive Safeguards Agreement (CSA), and to resolve all outstanding issues, especially those arising during the absence of the agency's inspectors," he stated.
North Korea claimed to have successfully launched a spy satellite into orbit late Tuesday night and plans to launch several more in the near future to enhance its reconnaissance capabilities.
The 5-megawatt electric (MWe) reactor was reportedly shut down for three to four weeks during September and early October 2023, but signs of operation have reappeared. Grossi also mentioned signs of ongoing activities at the centrifuge enrichment plant and its expansion.
The head of the IAEA emphasized that North Korea's Punggye-ri nuclear test site remains "ready for a new nuclear test," which he deemed a "cause for serious concern." He expressed deep regret over North Korea's nuclear activities and urged the country to fully comply with its obligations under relevant UN resolutions.
"I call on North Korea to fully fulfill its obligations in accordance with the relevant UN Security Council resolutions, to cooperate immediately with the agency in the full and effective implementation of its Comprehensive Safeguards Agreement (CSA), and to resolve all outstanding issues, especially those arising during the absence of the agency's inspectors," he stated.
North Korea claimed to have successfully launched a spy satellite into orbit late Tuesday night and plans to launch several more in the near future to enhance its reconnaissance capabilities.
