🔗 Share this article Chernobyl Catastrophe Shelter Can No Longer Blocks Radiation, Requires Major Restoration – International Atomic Energy Agency A protective shield encasing the Chornobyl nuclear reactor in Ukraine has lost its main safety function of blocking radiation, according to the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA). This failure follows a drone attack in February that blew a hole in the structure. Damage from Drone Strike Degrades Containment Structure A drone strike in February caused a breach in the multibillion-euro “New Safe Confinement” arch. This enormous protective structure, built at a cost of €1.5bn and completed in 2019, was intended to seal off radioactive material over the long term. An IAEA inspection last week found that the strike had degraded the structural integrity of the steel confinement. The [protective structure] had lost its primary safety functions, including the confinement capability, stated IAEA head Rafael Grossi. He added that the mission confirmed no permanent damage to its load-bearing structures or monitoring systems. Historical Context of the Chornobyl Containment The original 1986 disaster at Chornobyl – which occurred when Ukraine was a republic within the Soviet Union – released radiation over much of Europe. In a hurried response, Soviet authorities constructed a concrete “sarcophagus” over the damaged reactor, but it had a 30-year lifespan. The new confinement was constructed to allow for the eventual decommissioning of the old sarcophagus, the destroyed reactor hall, and the molten fuel itself. Present Status and Required Steps Although limited repairs have been carried out, the IAEA stressed that a full-scale repair effort is essential. This is needed to stop additional deterioration and to ensure safety for the coming decades. Ukrainian authorities had stated that a drone armed with a powerful explosive struck the plant, igniting a blaze and compromising the protective cladding. Radiation Readings: Authorities confirmed radiation levels stayed normal and stable after the incident with no indication of radiation leaks. Geopolitical Context: Moscow's troops seized the Chernobyl exclusion zone for over a month during the initial phase of the full-scale war. Wider Assessment: The IAEA carried out this review concurrently with a nationwide survey of conflict-related damage to the country's power substations. The situation underscore the persistent risks at one of the world's most notorious nuclear disaster sites during ongoing hostilities.