International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) Reports Damage to Chernobyl Nuclear Power Plant
The International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), a United Nations agency, announced on Friday that the protective shield of the Chernobyl nuclear power plant in Ukraine - built to contain radioactive materials resulting from the 1986 disaster - can no longer fulfill its primary safety function after being damaged by a drone. Ukraine has accused Russia of being responsible for the damage.
Inspection Reveals Damage to Steel Confinement Structure
The Agency reported that an inspection conducted last week on the steel confinement structure, completed in 2019, revealed that the drone impact in February, three years after the start of the war in Ukraine, had caused a deterioration of the structure. In a statement, Rafael Grossi, Director General of the IAEA, said that "the inspection mission confirmed that [the protective structure] has lost its essential safety functions, including containment capacity," but also concluded that there was "no permanent damage to the load-bearing structures or monitoring systems."
Repairs Underway, but Complete Restoration Needed
Grossi added that repairs have already been made, "but a complete restoration is still necessary to prevent further deterioration and ensure long-term nuclear safety." The incident highlights the ongoing concerns about the safety and security of the Chernobyl nuclear power plant, which has been affected by the conflict in Ukraine.
