Rafael Grossi, diplomat in running to head UN, warns of increased nuclear risk

Argentine diplomat Rafael Grossi, the director-general of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), warns that rising global instability and the assertiveness of world powers have put a strain on the idea of “mutually assured destruction” acting as a deterrent against nuclear proliferation.

Speaking to Modo Fontevecchia on Net TV and Radio Perfil (AM 1190), the diplomat – seen as a potential future head of the United Nations – warned: “There is a very high degree of alert and a buzz suggesting the possibility that nuclear weapons may be used.”

Grossi, 64, is the first Latin American to lead the IAEA, a role he has held since December 2019 and to which he was re-elected in March. His four decades in diplomacy span peace, security, non-proliferation and international development efforts. Before taking charge of the agency, he served as Argentina’s ambassador to Austria and to international organisations based in Vienna.

There is increasing talk of it being Latin America’s turn to head the United Nations and you would be the candidate representing the most votes in Latin America. You would be a kind of ‘new’ Pope Francis for Argentina if you did become secretary-general.

Your reflection is very generous. I would never, of course, measure myself up to the Holy Father, whom I had the opportunity to meet on various occasions. I do believe there is a legitimacy to the idea of having an Argentine in such a post, which I also believ