Russian Deputy Foreign Minister Sergei Ryabkov said that Moscow is counting on the implementation of the idea of the director of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) Rafael Grossi to create a protective zone around the Zaporozhye nuclear power plant. It is reported by TASS.

“There are resources and directions for intensifying work, including with the International Atomic Energy Agency. We continue efforts to implement the idea of Mr. Grossi to create a protective zone at this plant,” the Deputy Minister said at the Primakov Readings forum.

Ryabkov recalled that it was on Russia's initiative that the permanent presence of IAEA personnel at the Zaporozhye NPP was organized.

Grossi said last week that the withdrawal of weapons from the Zaporozhye nuclear power plant, which Ukraine is demanding, will be part of an agreement between Kyiv and Moscow with the agency.

In addition, Grossi noted that a decision on the safety of ZNPP could be found before the end of the year.