A protective shield covering the Chernobyl nuclear reactor in Ukraine can no longer provide its main containment function following a drone strike earlier this year, according to a UN watchdog.
International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) inspectors found that the massive structure, built over the site of the 1986 nuclear disaster, had lost its primary safety functions including the confinement capability.
In February, Ukraine accused Russia of targeting the power plant - a claim the Kremlin denied.
The IAEA said repairs were essential to prevent further degradation of the nuclear shelter. However, environmental expert Jim Smith from the University of Portsmouth indicated that it is not something to panic about.
Smith pointed out the biggest danger associated with the site was disturbing radioactive dust, which is contained within a thick concrete sarcophagus that is covered by the protective shield.
The IAEA's recent safety assessment revealed that while the drone strike caused damage, there was no permanent harm to the shell's load-bearing structures or monitoring systems. Some repairs have already been made to the roof.
IAEA director general Rafael Grossi emphasized the importance of timely restoration efforts to maintain long-term nuclear safety. The agency is actively monitoring Ukraine's energy infrastructure during the ongoing conflict.
Overnight, Russia launched airstrikes on Kremenchuk, highlighting ongoing tensions and the precarious situation surrounding the nuclear facilities.
