Archive · 7 Dec 2025
Chernobyl Shield Damaged in Drone Strike
The big steel cover that keeps the dangerous stuff from the Chernobyl nuclear disaster safe was damaged in a drone attack.
The United Nations' nuclear experts checked it out and said the cover can't do its job as well as it used to.
They found some damage but said the important parts are still okay.
The radiation levels are still safe, but they need to fix the cover to make sure it stays safe for a long time.
The Ukrainian government says Russia did it, but Russia says they didn't.
The experts are also checking other important places in Ukraine that might have been damaged in the war.
The New Safe Confinement (NSC) at Chernobyl was damaged in a drone strike on February 14, 2025.
The IAEA confirmed the protective structure lost its primary safety functions but found no permanent damage to load-bearing structures.
Radiation levels at the site remain normal and stable with no reports of leaks.
Ukrainian authorities attribute the attack to Russia, which denies involvement.
Comprehensive restoration is essential to prevent further degradation and ensure long-term nuclear safety.
- Who
- International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) and Ukrainian authorities
- What
- Damage to the New Safe Confinement (NSC) at Chernobyl nuclear plant
- When
- February 14, 2025
- Where
- Chernobyl Nuclear Power Plant, Ukraine
- Why
- Drone strike reportedly carrying a high explosive warhead
- Location
- Chernobyl Nuclear Power Plant, Ukraine
- Date of Incident
- February 14, 2025
- Damaged Structure
- New Safe Confinement (NSC)
- Radiation Levels
- Normal and stable
- Inspection Agency
- International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA)
- Primary Safety Function
- Compromised
- Load-Bearing Structures
- No permanent damage