A Russian drone attack on the Chernobyl nuclear plant has raised alarm over the safety of the containment structure covering the infamous reactor. While the protective dome remains intact, Ukrainian officials warn of the growing risks posed by military actions near radioactive sites.
Drone Strike on Chernobyl’s Reactor Shelter
As reported by WP Tech, a Russian drone equipped with an explosive warhead struck the protective sarcophagus of the Chernobyl nuclear plant overnight. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky confirmed the attack, calling it a "terrorist threat to the entire world."
The explosion triggered a fire at the site, but emergency teams were able to extinguish it before it spread. Despite the attack, the State Agency for Atomic Energy reported no immediate radiation leaks or abnormal readings in neighboring countries.
The Strength of the Chernobyl Sarcophagus
The protective structure, known as the New Safe Confinement, was designed to withstand extreme events, including the crash of an aircraft, powerful tornadoes, and earthquakes. The dome, constructed of stainless steel with reinforced polycarbonate panels, is meant to last at least 100 years.
While the drone used in the attack was likely a Shahed-136—an unmanned aircraft with a launch weight of around 200 kg—it was not powerful enough to breach the dome. The shelter remains structurally sound, though experts are closely monitoring for any potential long-term impact.
Lingering Nuclear Risks at the Site
Although the sarcophagus provides significant protection, the destroyed reactor still contains hundreds of tons of radioactive material, including uranium and plutonium. Experts have yet to find a definitive solution for safely removing these hazardous substances.
With tensions escalating in the region, international leaders are urging restraint to prevent further attacks near nuclear sites. The Chernobyl disaster of 1986 remains a stark reminder of the catastrophic consequences of radioactive contamination, making any strike on the facility a serious global concern.
