The director of the Chornobyl Nuclear Power Plant, Serhii Tarakanov, has raised alarming concerns regarding the stability of the New Safe Confinement structure following reports of potential Russian strikes. In a recent interview with AFP, Tarakanov warned that another military attack could lead to the collapse of the shelter designed to contain radiation from the 1986 disaster.
Tarakanov indicated that if a missile or drone were to strike the structure directly, or even land in close proximity, it could generate a significant seismic effect, resulting in catastrophic consequences for the integrity of the New Safe Confinement. “God forbid, it will cause a mini-earthquake in the area. No one can guarantee the protective structure stays in place after that. That is the main threat,” he stated.
Currently, while radiation levels at the site are reported to be stable and within normal limits, the shelter remains damaged after a Russian loitering munition hit it on the night of February 13-14, 2025. Although a large hole from the drone strike has been covered with a protective screen, about 300 additional openings created by firefighters during their efforts to quell the fire still need to be adequately sealed.
Efforts to restore the damaged shelter could take approximately three to four years, highlighting the urgency for continued oversight and protective measures. In response to the situation, the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) has deployed additional experts to conduct a thorough safety assessment of the New Safe Confinement to ensure it can fulfill its essential safety function.
This ongoing situation underscores the critical need for international attention and support to maintain the safety of the Chornobyl NPP and prevent further deterioration of the protective measures in place.