Overview
- An IAEA inspection in early December found the New Safe Confinement has lost its principal safety and confinement functions at Reactor 4.
- Inspectors reported no permanent damage to load‑bearing components or monitoring systems, and said temporary fixes were installed on the roof.
- The IAEA deemed a complete restoration essential to prevent further degradation and to ensure long‑term nuclear safety.
- The structure was struck by a drone on February 14, causing a fire and a breach; Ukraine blames Russia, which denies responsibility.
- Radiation readings have remained normal with no reported releases, as the internationally funded arch—built for roughly €1.5–2 billion and intended for a century of service—faces repair needs after wartime disruptions including the 2022 occupation.