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Russia and Ukraine Clash Over Alleged Drone Strike on Chernobyl Nuclear Plant
Ukraine Accuses Russia of Drone Attack
On February 14, 2025, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy claimed that a Russian drone carrying a high-explosive warhead struck the New Safe Confinement structure at the Chernobyl Nuclear Power Plant. The attack reportedly caused significant damage, though radiation levels remained normal, and no casualties were reported.
Russia Denies Involvement, Calls Incident a ‘Provocation’
In response, Russian officials dismissed the accusation, calling it a staged provocation by Kyiv. Maria Zakharova, spokeswoman for the Russian Foreign Ministry, alleged that Ukraine orchestrated the event to coincide with the Munich Security Conference in an effort to secure more Western military aid.
IAEA Confirms Explosion but Reports No Radiation Leak
The International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) verified that an explosion and subsequent fire occurred at the site. Personnel stationed at Chernobyl reported hearing the blast and observing structural damage. However, the agency confirmed that radiation levels remained within normal parameters.
Escalating Fears Over Nuclear Facility Safety
This incident has heightened concerns about the security of nuclear sites amid the ongoing conflict. Both Russia and Ukraine have previously accused each other of targeting critical infrastructure, further fueling international apprehension.
“Russia and Ukraine Clash Over Alleged Drone Strike on Chernobyl Nuclear Plant”