The International Atomic Energy Agency has reported a serious issue regarding the containment capabilities of the New Safe Confinement structure covering Reactor 4 at the Chernobyl nuclear power plant following a drone strike.

Following an inspection prompted by damage from a February drone attack, the IAEA confirmed that this protective shield for one of the world’s most dangerous reactors “had lost its primary safety functions, including containment ability.” The €1.5 billion structure built after the 1986 disaster now requires urgent major repairs due to compromised integrity.

The incident occurred when a drone strike penetrated the massive steel arch construction at the site known as Chernobyl Nuclear Power Plant (ZNPP). While initial damage did not cause an immediate radiation leak, the subsequent analysis reveals that containment capabilities have been significantly degraded. IAEA Director General Rafael Mariano Grossi confirmed this during his recent visit to the site.

Although structural support systems and monitoring equipment remain functional according to preliminary reports, comprehensive repairs are now essential rather than just temporary fixes. The international agency has dispatched additional experts to conduct thorough assessments of both damage extent and potential solutions needed for immediate safety measures at Chornobyl.

This critical development represents a significant setback in containment efforts following the incident last month which marks the first direct attack on this vital structure since its construction.