Russian Drone Attack Targets Chernobyl Nuclear Disaster Site; Zelensky Posts Aftermath Video
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Synopsis
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky announced that a Russian drone struck the Chernobyl Nuclear Power Plant, the site of the 1986 disaster. He condemned the attack as a global terrorist threat and reassured that radiation levels remain stable despite damage to the facility.
Key Takeaways
- Drone strike on Chernobyl Nuclear Power Plant.
- Zelensky shares video of damage.
- High-explosive warhead used in the attack.
- Radiation levels being monitored and are stable.
- IAEA confirms hearing explosion from the site.
New Delhi, Feb 14 (NationPress) Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky reported on Friday that a Russian drone struck the Chernobyl Nuclear Power Plant, infamous for the catastrophic nuclear disaster in 1986.
The drone strike occurred late on February 13, and Zelensky shared video evidence of the damage on social media platform X, highlighting the severe implications of this incident.
Zelensky commented, "Last night, a Russian attack drone, equipped with a high-explosive warhead, hit the protective shelter that safeguards the world from radiation at the devastated fourth reactor of the Chernobyl Nuclear Power Plant. This shelter was a joint initiative established by Ukraine, European nations, the United States, and the global community—all dedicated to ensuring true security for humanity."
He condemned Russia's actions, stating, "The only nation that would target such sites, occupy nuclear facilities, and engage in warfare without considering the consequences is today’s Russia. This is not merely an attack on Ukraine, but a terrorist threat to the entire globe."
The Chernobyl shelter, which encloses the remains of reactor number 4, sustained significant damage due to the drone strike. Nevertheless, Zelensky confirmed that the fire ignited by the explosion has been extinguished.
"Radiation levels remain stable and are being monitored continuously," he assured, although he acknowledged that initial evaluations indicated substantial damage to the facility.
In his statement, Zelensky emphasized the persistent nature of Russia's aggression: "Every night, Russia continues to launch attacks on Ukraine’s infrastructure and urban areas. Russia's actions indicate its escalating militarization and utter disregard for human life. These acts show that President Putin is not preparing for discussions; instead, he is readying to mislead the world further. The international community must unite to pressure the aggressor—Russia must be held accountable for its actions."
The International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) also addressed this incident on social media platform 'X.' The IAEA team present at the facility confirmed that they heard an explosion originating from the New Safe Confinement, designed to prevent further radiation exposure.
The IAEA reported that an unmanned aerial vehicle (drone) struck the roof of the confinement, resulting in the explosion and subsequent fire.
