Chornobyl nuclear plant radiation shield struck by Russian drone, Ukraine says
Global News
"There is no talk about strikes on nuclear infrastructure, nuclear energy facilities," Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov said, denying Russia had any responsibility.
A drone armed with a warhead hit the outer protective shell of Ukraine’s Chornobyl nuclear power plant early Friday, damaging the structure and starting a fire, in an attack Kyiv blamed on Russia.
The protective shield around the fourth reactor sustained a large hole from the hit. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said the situation is being monitored to assess any potential risks.
“Last night, a Russian attack drone with a high-explosive warhead struck the shelter protecting the world from radiation at the destroyed 4th power unit of the Chornobyl Nuclear Power Plant,” Zelenskyy said Friday.
“This shelter was built by Ukraine together with other countries of Europe and the world, together with America — all those committed to real security for humanity. The only country in the world that attacks such sites, occupies nuclear power plants, and wages war without any regard for the consequences is today’s Russia.
“This is a terrorist attack for the entire world.”
Zelenskyy shared security camera footage of the moment a bright flash lit up the dark sky at the power plant before a large fireball rose from the roof of the structure. Aerial footage showed flames shooting from the hole created by the drone.
“The shelter at the Chornobyl NPP was damaged by this drone. The fire has been extinguished. As of now, radiation levels have not increased and are being constantly monitored. According to initial assessments, the damage to the shelter is significant,” Zelenskyy continued.
Zelenskyy said Russia “carries out such attacks on Ukraine’s infrastructure and cities” every night.
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"There is no talk about strikes on nuclear infrastructure, nuclear energy facilities," Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov said, denying Russia had any responsibility.
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