In the early hours of today, Russia launched a drone attack targeting the Chernobyl Nuclear Power Plant, raising immediate concerns about the potential release of deadly radiation.
The attack, which Ukraine claims involved a Russian drone armed with a high-explosive warhead, struck the shelter that protects the world from the radiation at the destroyed 4th reactor.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky shared the alarming news on social media, confirming the damage but also noting that the fire ignited by the strike had been extinguished.
Radiation Levels Stay Normal, but the Threat Remains
Despite the scare, Zelensky assured the public that radiation levels around the plant have not increased.
International observers are continuing to monitor the situation closely.
Zelensky, however, didn’t hold back in his condemnation of Russia, calling the attack a “terrorist threat” to the entire world.
He pointed out that Russia is the only country that would target such vital, dangerous sites without any concern for the global consequences of their actions.
This latest escalation comes just as representatives from both Ukraine and Russia prepare to meet with U.S. officials in Munich.
IAEA Monitors the Situation and Provides Updates
The International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) reported hearing an explosion from the new safe confinement at Chernobyl, which houses the remains of reactor 4.
The explosion started a fire, but emergency responders acted swiftly, and no casualties have been reported.
The IAEA emphasized that radiation levels remain normal both inside and outside of the facility.
Their teams continue to monitor the site to ensure public safety.
Russia Accuses Ukraine of Striking Another Power Plant
In another developing story, Russia has accused Ukraine of attacking a thermal power plant it controls in southern Ukraine.
The plant, located near the Zaporizhzhia nuclear power station, was reportedly hit by Ukrainian artillery on February 13.
The attack left over 50,000 people without electricity, and efforts are currently underway to restore power.
Russian officials stated that the Zaporizhzhia nuclear power plant itself was not affected by the attack and is continuing its operations as usual.
Chernobyl Disaster: A Tragic History
To understand the gravity of today’s events, it’s essential to remember the catastrophic Chernobyl disaster of April 26, 1986.
The explosion and fire at reactor 4 of the Chernobyl power station released vast amounts of radioactive material into the surrounding areas.
Over 160,000 people were evacuated from the nearby town of Pripyat and its surroundings, creating a vast exclusion zone that remains in place to this day.
The area, often referred to as a “dead zone” due to the persistent radiation, is still considered too dangerous for human habitation.
However, the wildlife thriving in the area offers a surprising twist, with many advocating for the region to be transformed into a protected wildlife reserve, despite the radioactive risks.