Ukraine has reported that a Russian drone strike hit the protective radiation shield at the Chernobyl nuclear power plant, the site of the world’s worst nuclear disaster. President Volodymyr Zelensky stated that the overnight attack caused a fire, which was quickly extinguished. The International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) confirmed that as of Friday morning, radiation levels remain stable both inside and outside the plant. The attack has raised serious concerns about nuclear safety in the ongoing conflict, with experts warning of the dangers of targeting such sensitive sites.
The massive containment structure, a $1.6 billion steel and concrete sarcophagus, was built to seal off the remains of the reactor that exploded in 1986, releasing radioactive material across Europe. This structure was never designed to withstand military strikes, and experts fear that continued attacks could compromise its integrity. Simon Evans, former head of the Chernobyl Shelter Fund, described the incident as "an incredibly reckless strike on a vulnerable nuclear facility." The strike reportedly damaged parts of the crane system used to remotely dismantle radioactive components, raising concerns about the future of the plant's decommissioning efforts.
Despite Ukraine’s accusations, Russia has denied any involvement, stating that its military does not target nuclear infrastructure. However, the attack at Chernobyl follows months of escalating tensions around the Zaporizhzhia Nuclear Power Plant, Europe’s largest nuclear facility, which has been caught in the crossfire between Ukrainian and Russian forces. In December, both sides accused each other of launching a drone strike on a convoy transporting IAEA experts to the plant, prompting further warnings from international agencies.
Professor Jim Smith, a nuclear expert from the University of Portsmouth who has studied the aftermath of the Chernobyl disaster, acknowledged that the attack was alarming but emphasized that the thick concrete sarcophagus beneath the shield still provides a critical layer of protection. However, he warned that reckless military activity around nuclear sites could lead to unforeseen consequences.
The Chernobyl disaster of 1986 remains one of the most devastating nuclear accidents in history, with the official death toll standing at 31, though the United Nations estimates that thousands more could suffer long-term health effects due to radiation exposure. The latest attack raises fears that history could repeat itself in an even more dangerous form.
The IAEA remains on high alert, with its director general, Rafael Mariano Grossi, stating that there is "no room for complacency" when it comes to nuclear safety in times of war. Global leaders have called for restraint and immediate measures to protect nuclear sites from further attacks. As the conflict in Ukraine continues, experts and policymakers are urging the world to recognize the grave risks of turning nuclear facilities into battle zones. The lessons of Chernobyl must not be forgotten, and the international community must act before a new nuclear crisis unfolds.