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IAEA: Chernobyl’s Protective Arch Has Lost Its Containment Function After Drone Strike

Inspectors found no radiation release or lasting structural damage, prompting calls for urgent restoration and upgraded monitoring.

Overview

  • An IAEA inspection confirmed the New Safe Confinement no longer performs its primary safety role, including containment, after a February drone attack.
  • The strike ignited a fire and damaged the outer cladding of the steel structure that covers reactor 4, yet site radiation levels remained normal.
  • Experts reported no permanent damage to load‑bearing components or to the plant’s monitoring systems, and only limited temporary roof repairs to date.
  • The IAEA urged immediate moisture control, updated corrosion surveillance, and modernization of the integrated automatic monitoring system.
  • Additional temporary repairs supported by the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development are planned for 2026, while Ukraine blames Russia for the attack and Moscow denies responsibility.