According to Ukraine, Russian Drone hits Chernobyl Nuclear, Raise Safety Concerns

A Russian drone hit the Chernobyl nuclear site overnight Friday, according to Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky. 

The attack targeted the protective shelter covering the plant’s destroyed fourth reactor, sparking a fire that was later extinguished. The strike has reignited concerns about nuclear safety in the ongoing conflict.

The International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) confirmed that its team at the site heard a large explosion around 2 A.M. local time. While radiation levels remain stable, officials warn that the shelter sustained significant damage.

Potential Radiation Risks

Chernobyl’s chief engineer, Oleksandr Tytarchuk, stated that the shelter can no longer fully perform its function after the attack. He emphasized that while the situation is currently under control, there is a risk of radioactive substances being released. Repairs will require extensive time and effort.

Ukraine’s State Emergency Service reported that radiation levels in the area remain within normal limits. However, Zelensky warned that further attacks could trigger a nuclear disaster, endangering both Ukraine and neighboring countries.

Russia Denies Responsibility

The Kremlin denied involvement, with spokesperson Dmitry Peskov calling it “another provocation” by Ukraine. He claimed Kyiv staged the attack to shift global opinion against Moscow. Russia has repeatedly been accused of endangering nuclear sites, including during previous battles near the Zaporizhzhia Nuclear Power Plant.

A Timely Attack Before Peace Talks?

The strike came just days after Russian President Vladimir Putin and former U.S. President Donald Trump held a long conversation ahead of potential peace talks. While the call was described as productive, European leaders worry about a deal that might favor Moscow without considering Ukraine’s security needs.

Meanwhile, U.S. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth told European leaders that Ukraine’s NATO membership is unlikely in any peace agreement. This statement has further complicated diplomatic efforts. However, U.S. Vice President JD Vance suggested that sending American troops to Ukraine remains an option if peace negotiations do not ensure Kyiv’s long-term security.

Chernobyl’s Global Importance

The Chernobyl disaster of 1986 released radioactive materials across Europe. To contain further risks, an international coalition built a massive sarcophagus over Reactor 4. Completed in 2017, the structure weighs 35,000 tons and was largely funded by Western nations, including the U.S.

Andriy Yermak, Zelensky’s chief of staff, emphasized that the U.S. had heavily invested in the project and should take the recent attack seriously. Ahead of the Munich Security Conference, he pledged to provide American partners with detailed evidence of Russia’s threats to nuclear safety.

Escalating Drone Warfare

Ukraine’s military reported that Russia launched 133 drones across the country in the same overnight attack, with 73 intercepted before reaching their targets. The attack aligns with the recent pattern of Russian drone strikes aimed at weakening Ukraine’s infrastructure.

As the Munich Security Conference begins, officials from Ukraine and Western nations are preparing for intense discussions about nuclear security and the future of the war. Zelensky insists that Putin’s continued aggression proves he is not serious about negotiations.

With tensions rising, the world watches closely to see if diplomatic efforts can prevent further nuclear threats in the ongoing conflict.