A recent Russian Federation drone strike caused damage to the protective shelter covering the reactor at the Chernobyl Nuclear Power Plant, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy confirmed, raising fresh concerns about nuclear safety in the region. The incident occurred amid ongoing tensions between Ukraine and Russia, highlighting the vulnerability of critical infrastructure in conflict zones.

President Zelenskyy stated that while there were no immediate radioactive leaks, the attack compromised part of the containment structure designed to prevent environmental contamination. He described the strike as a reckless act, underscoring the potential risks associated with military operations near nuclear facilities.

Ukrainian authorities dispatched inspection teams to assess the extent of the damage and ensure that safety protocols were fully enforced. The damaged shelter, also known as the sarcophagus, was originally constructed to contain radiation from the 1986 Chernobyl disaster, and its integrity remains critical to preventing radioactive exposure.

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International nuclear monitoring agencies expressed concern and called for restraint, emphasizing that attacks near nuclear sites could have catastrophic consequences. They urged both parties in the conflict to avoid any actions that might compromise the safety of nuclear infrastructure.

The Chernobyl site has remained largely uninhabited since the disaster, but it continues to be monitored due to residual radiation and the presence of radioactive waste. Officials emphasized that continued vigilance is required to prevent escalation of risk from military actions in the region.

As the situation develops, Ukraine has called on international partners to pressure Moscow to cease attacks on civilian and critical infrastructure, stressing that the world cannot afford a repeat of past nuclear disasters.

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