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IAEA Says Chernobyl Shelter Has Lost Its Core Safety Functions After Drone Strike

Inspectors reported intact load-bearing structures with monitoring systems functioning as repairs progress.

Overview

  • An on-site IAEA inspection confirmed the loss of the shelter’s containment capability at the decommissioned plant.
  • The agency said it found no permanent damage to load-bearing elements or to monitoring equipment, and noted initial repairs.
  • IAEA Director Rafael Grossi stated that comprehensive restoration is required to ensure long-term nuclear safety.
  • The United Nations previously reported that a drone carrying a high-explosive warhead struck the site on 14 February, with radiation readings remaining normal and stable at the time.
  • Ukraine accused Russia of carrying out the strike, which Moscow denied, as the assessment renews concern over the protection of nuclear facilities during the war.