A recent drone attack at the Chornobyl nuclear site has raised serious concerns about nuclear safety amidst ongoing military conflict in Ukraine. The attack, which took place early this morning, caused a fire on the structure enclosing the remains of the reactor destroyed in the 1986 Chornobyl disaster.
Explosion at Chornobyl’s New Safe Confinement (NSC)
According to the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), the explosion was heard at 01:50 am local time by their team stationed at the site. The Ukrainian authorities confirmed that a drone struck the New Safe Confinement (NSC) – a protective structure designed to contain radioactive materials from the damaged reactor unit 4 and shield it from external hazards.
Fire and Structural Damage
The explosion led to a fire, which was visible for several hours.
Fire safety personnel arrived quickly and managed to control the blaze.
The outer cladding of the NSC arch sustained damage.
Investigations are ongoing to assess the condition of the inner protective layer.
Despite the structural damage, radiation levels inside and outside the NSC remain stable, and no casualties have been reported.
IAEA Expresses Concern Over Growing Nuclear Risks
IAEA Director General Rafael Mariano Grossi emphasised the ongoing risks to nuclear facilities in the region. He highlighted the growing dangers following increased military activity near the Zaporizhzhya Nuclear Power Plant (ZNPP).
“There is no room for complacency, and the IAEA remains on high alert,” said Grossi. “I once again call for maximum military restraint around Ukraine’s nuclear sites.”
IAEA’s Presence and Continued Monitoring
The IAEA has been stationed at the ZNPP since September 2022 to monitor nuclear safety and security.
A planned rotation of IAEA staff at ZNPP was recently cancelled due to safety concerns.
Director General Grossi is in communication with both sides to ensure safe passage for IAEA teams.
Further updates on the Chornobyl situation will be provided as new information emerges.
Conclusion
The attack on Chornobyl’s NSC serves as a stark reminder of the vulnerabilities of nuclear sites during conflict. With military operations continuing in Ukraine, nuclear safety remains at significant risk. The IAEA continues to monitor the situation closely and urges all parties to exercise restraint to prevent potential nuclear disasters.
Sources: IAEA Official Statement, Ukrainian Regulatory Authorities