The strategic significance in these talks lies with Russia’s interest in de-militarizing part of its newly reunified territories upon Kiev agreeing to do the same along its part of the LOC. This in turn reinforces the conclusion that the Ukrainian Conflict has shifted into a defensive one for Moscow, which explains why it would officially countenance such a pragmatic de-escalation measure. It also shows that its “shock and awe” campaign hasn’t successfully neutralized Kiev’s threat to the ZNPP.
I think in part the reason the Kremlin is still talking to the IAEA on this matter is more because they cannot afford to breakup with the agency, it would endanger tens of billions of revenue for Rosatom, which is building numerous power plants across the world.
I think in part the reason the Kremlin is still talking to the IAEA on this matter is more because they cannot afford to breakup with the agency, it would endanger tens of billions of revenue for Rosatom, which is building numerous power plants across the world.