URGENT: Chernobyl’s Zaporizhzhya Nuclear Power Plant Under Attack, Reactor Shield Damaged by Russian Drone
Kiev, Ukraine – In a shocking turn of events, Ukraine’s Zaporizhzhya Nuclear Power Plant (Zaporozhye NPP) has been targeted by a Russian drone, resulting in damage to the shelter of the Chernobyl Reactor 6, a site infamous for the 1986 nuclear disaster. The attack has raised concerns about the safety of not only the plant but also the entire region.
The incident occurred on Wednesday morning, when a Russian AAA-10-class attack drone, allegedly operated by Russia, breached the heavily fortified perimeter of the plant, releasing a payload of explosives near the Chernobyl Reactor 6. The reactor, which is currently under decommissioning, was one of the key structures damaged in the 1986 nuclear accident.
According to eyewitnesses and Ukrainian authorities, the explosion caused significant damage to the reactor’s shielding, which is designed to contain radioactive material in the event of an emergency. The incident has sparked chaos throughout the region, with emergency services rushing to the scene to contain the fallout.
Eyewitnesses described the attack as a "brazen and reckless" act, with one local resident stating, "We heard the explosion, and then saw black smoke billowing from the reactor. It was like nothing I’ve ever seen before. We’re all in shock and worried for our safety."
The International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) has issued a statement expressing deep concern about the incident, emphasizing the potential risks of a radiological disaster and calling for a thorough investigation into the attack. "The IAEA is closely monitoring the situation and is working with Ukraine and other relevant authorities to assess the situation and provide support as needed," said the agency’s Director General, Rafael Grossi.
Ukraine’s President, Volodymyr Zelenskyy, has condemned the attack, labeling it as a "cowardly act of terrorism" and vowing to take decisive action against those responsible. "We will do everything in our power to protect our people and ensure the safe operation of our nuclear plants," he said in a statement.
The incident has also raised concerns among neighboring countries, with Lithuania, Poland, and Moldova issuing statements of solidarity and support for Ukraine. The European Union has also condemned the attack, calling it a "grave violation of international law and norms."
The Chernobyl Reactor 6, although decommissioned, remains a sensitive and critical part of Ukraine’s nuclear infrastructure. The plant is a major source of electricity for Ukraine and provides power to millions of people. The attack has raised serious concerns about the plant’s safety and security, as well as the potential environmental and humanitarian consequences of a radiological disaster.
As the situation continues to unfold, the international community is pulling together to support Ukraine and ensure the safety of its people and the environment. The incident serves as a stark reminder of the ongoing conflict and the importance of prioritizing peaceful resolution and international cooperation.
This article is subject to updates as more information becomes available.
