Chernobyl’s Radiation Shield Compromised After Drone Strike

The radiation shield protecting the Chernobyl nuclear power plant in Ukraine has been compromised following a drone strike, according to the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA). The multilayered confinement building, completed in 2019 at a cost of €1.5 billion, was designed to contain radiation from the melted-down nuclear fuel. Ukrainian prosecutors reported that a Russian Shahed drone struck the protective shield in February 2023, resulting in significant damage.

During a recent inspection, IAEA Director General Rafael Grossi confirmed that the shield “lost its primary safety functions,” including its ability to contain radiation. Although the inspection revealed no permanent damage to the load-bearing structures or monitoring systems, Grossi emphasized that “comprehensive restoration remains essential to prevent further degradation and ensure long-term nuclear safety.”

Ukrainian authorities stated that the drone, which carried a high-explosive warhead, ignited a fire and damaged parts of the protective cladding surrounding the reactor. In contrast, Moscow denied any involvement in the attack. Despite the incident, the UN reported that radiation levels remained normal, with no indications of leaks.

Concerns Over Nuclear Safety in Ukraine

The 1986 explosion at the Chernobyl nuclear power plant released vast amounts of radiation across Europe. To mitigate the aftermath, the Soviet Union constructed a concrete sarcophagus over the reactor, which was intended to last for 30 years. The new confinement structure, soaring over 100 meters at its peak, was built to encapsulate the melted nuclear fuel still present beneath the sarcophagus.

Fears have escalated regarding the ongoing conflict and its impact on nuclear safety, particularly at the Zaporizhzhia nuclear power plant, Europe’s largest facility. Since September 23, 2022, the plant has operated on diesel backup generators after its last external power line was severed. President Volodymyr Zelenskyy raised alarms about the risks associated with prolonged reliance on these generators, stating they were not designed for such extended use. He described the situation at Zaporizhzhia as “critical.”

The Zaporizhzhia plant, located in an area occupied by Russian forces since February 2022, is currently non-operational but requires a stable power supply to cool its six shutdown reactors and manage spent fuel. Grossi remarked that emergency diesel generators should act as a “last line of defence,” but their frequent use amidst the ongoing conflict presents a severe threat to nuclear safety.

As Grossi noted, “As long as this devastating conflict goes on, nuclear safety and security remains under severe threat.” Despite reporting some positive developments, he cautioned that “we are far from being out of the woods yet.”

The situation surrounding Chernobyl and other nuclear facilities in Ukraine highlights the precarious balance of safety and security as fighting continues in the region.