STOCKHOLM, Sweden: Former UN weapons inspector Hans Blix expressed confidence that Russian President Vladimir Putin would avoid catastrophic actions at Ukraine’s Zaporizhzhia nuclear power plant amid growing international concern. Blix, 96, who led the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) from 1981 to 1997, described Putin as “very rational” and “knowing what he’s doing.”
Blix, known for his role in the 2003 Iraq war controversy, reiterated his belief that Iraq was not developing nuclear weapons prior to the Gulf War. His findings contradicted the claims made by US President George W. Bush, which led to the invasion of Iraq. Blix criticized the invasion as a “terrible mistake,” attributing it to flawed intelligence and American arrogance.
Regarding the ongoing conflict in Ukraine, Blix labeled Russia’s invasion as another “aberration,” similar to the Iraq War. Despite recent warnings from the IAEA about the deteriorating safety situation at the Zaporizhzhia plant, Blix does not believe Russia would deliberately attack the site. He expressed confidence that the Russian military has been instructed to avoid severe damage to the facility.
Blix also dismissed concerns over Putin’s nuclear threats, noting that both major powers and China avoid direct confrontation due to the risk of escalation. He remains hopeful for a future where Russia re-engages with the international community and Europe, though acknowledging that this will take time.
In his recent book, “A Farewell to Wars,” Blix advocates for multilateralism and collaboration to address global challenges like climate change, pandemics, and organized crime. He stressed the importance of global cooperation in an increasingly interconnected world.
