Chernobyl Nuclear Site: Safety Function Compromised After Drone Strike
The International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) has reported a compromise in the primary safety functions of the protective shield encompassing the Chernobyl nuclear reactor in Ukraine, following a drone strike in February. Ukraine attributed the strike to Russia, a claim subsequently denied by the Kremlin.
Impact on Containment
IAEA inspectors determined that the substantial structure, built over the 1986 nuclear disaster site, has lost its "primary safety functions including the confinement capability." The drone incident resulted in a fire affecting the outer cladding of the steel structure.
Expert Assessment of Risks
Professor Jim Smith, an environmental expert from the University of Portsmouth who has studied the aftermath of the Chernobyl disaster, stated that the principal hazard at the site involves the disturbance of radioactive dust. However, he also indicated that "the risk is low," as contaminated dust is contained within the original thick concrete "sarcophagus," which is itself covered by the newer protective shield.
Historical Context of the Protective Structures
The 1986 explosion at Chernobyl dispersed radioactive material, leading the former Soviet Union to construct a sarcophagus over the damaged reactor. This initial structure had a 30-year operational lifespan, necessitating the later construction of the current protective shield, designed to ensure radioactive material containment for an additional century.
IAEA Findings and Recommendations
An IAEA safety assessment team completed an evaluation last week. The findings indicated no permanent damage to the shield's load-bearing structures or monitoring systems, and some roof repairs have been completed. Despite these partial repairs, IAEA Director General Rafael Grossi emphasized that "timely and comprehensive restoration remains essential to prevent further degradation and ensure long-term nuclear safety."
Broader IAEA Activities in Ukraine
The UN's nuclear watchdog has been assessing Ukraine's energy infrastructure since early December amidst ongoing conflict. These assessments include inspections of electrical substations, which are critical for the operational safety of nuclear power plants, providing electricity for reactor cooling and other safety systems, as well as for distributing power to households and industry. Concurrently, Russia reportedly conducted airstrikes on the city of Kremenchuk, an industrial hub located in central Ukraine.