Kyiv: The International Atomic Energy Agency has confirmed that a protective structure covering the destroyed reactor at the Chornobyl nuclear plant has been damaged and is no longer functioning at its full safety capacity. The damage is linked to a drone strike earlier this year.
Inspectors who visited the site reported that while the main monitoring systems remain operational and radiation levels are normal, the shield has lost its full protective function. The steel structure known as the New Safe Confinement was completed in 2019 to prevent radioactive material from spreading from the remains of the reactor that exploded in 1986.
The strike caused a section of the roofing to be damaged and insulation inside the structure caught fire. Repairs were carried out soon after the incident, but the UN nuclear watchdog says the restoration is temporary and a complete repair is needed to prevent long term deterioration.
Experts warn that the recent conflict has shown how nuclear sites can become vulnerable in war zones. Although there is no current leak or danger to nearby communities, specialists say that future damage or delayed repairs could increase risks over time.
The agency has called for continued monitoring and long term reconstruction to restore the full safety function of the protective cover. Ukrainian officials say safeguarding the site remains a priority and international support may be needed.
The Chornobyl disaster remains one of the worst nuclear accidents in history and the damaged reactor still requires secure containment decades later.