Ukraine tirelessly works on restoring the damaged shelters at the Chernobyl Nuclear Power Plant, which were seriously impacted as a result of the Russian attack, reports the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA)
This work remains one of the most vital safety measures in the context of preserving nuclear infrastructure and preventing a nuclear disaster in an already tense environment. According to IAEA Director General Rafael Mariano Grossi, Ukrainian engineers and builders are diligently continuing the repair of the confinement — the protective shell covering Unit 4 of the Chernobyl NPP. This structure, designed to contain and safely store the destroyed reactor from 1986, suffered significant damage following an attack by Russian drones earlier this year. Sources from the agency remind that on February 14, a Russian drone pierced through the roof of the large confinement structure built in recent years to protect against potential radioactive releases. The explosion created a large hole, complicating the safety situation of the site. The fire caused by the strike lasted several weeks and dangerously spread radioactive substances. Despite the damage, IAEA representatives emphasized that the radiation levels remained stable and did not exceed permissible norms. Additionally, a team from the international organization, which recently visited the site, assessed the condition of the protective structure and noted that the design is capable of fulfilling its primary functions — isolating radioactive material and protecting the environment. Grossi stressed that all efforts are currently focused on a comprehensive assessment of the extent of damage and on executing short-term repairs, as the decommissioned object requires immediate measures to maintain its safety. A key point is that, despite significant structural damage, the explosion and destruction did not result in the spread of radioactive substances into the environment, and consequently — no additional environmental hazards arose, reports the State Emergency Service of Ukraine. They assured that the radiation background remained within normal limits after the strike and posed no threat to the population or the environment. President Volodymyr Zelensky, in his address, emphasized that this event is yet another confirmation of Russia’s aggressive actions aimed deliberately at attacking Ukraine’s nuclear infrastructure, including the facilities at Chernobyl. According to the head of state, the night attack on February 14 using a drone was targeted at damaging the fourth unit’s shelter, which had already sustained several damages during previous military actions. Evidence of the magnitude of the destruction is also confirmed by the first verified information from the IAEA, which reported an explosion during the night of February 14. The impact hit the roof of the containment structure covering the reactor. This concerns the new protective shell designed to shield the reactor from external influences and prevent potential radioactive releases. Regarding the current situation, representatives of relevant services report that radiation monitoring measures confirmed the absence of significant changes in radiation levels, indicating that environmental safety remains maintained. This creates a basis for continued efforts to minimize the attack’s consequences and prepare for the complete reconstruction of the plant’s emergency infrastructure. Experts note that repair work on the damaged structures at Chernobyl NPP will continue, as ensuring safety and protecting the population remain priorities for the Ukrainian authorities and international partners. The efforts are aimed not only at restoring the integrity of the facilities but also at strengthening safety systems at the station to prevent any future incidents. In the context of the ongoing crisis and war, the need for heightened attention to the safety of nuclear facilities and the implementation of all necessary measures to prevent catastrophic consequences is evident. The responsibility for safeguarding lives and the environment currently lies with the Ukrainian government and international organizations, which are working around the clock to restore and ensure the security of nuclear energy sites.