In brief
Ukrainian officials confirm that a Russian drone strike has put the Chernobyl nuclear power plant's protective structure at risk, raising alarming safety concerns.
Five technicians were seen battling icy conditions at the Chernobyl nuclear power plant after a Russian drone strike damaged the protective shell above Reactor No. 4. The strike, which occurred early Friday morning, created a 540-square-foot hole and was reportedly executed with a high-explosive warhead, making it one of the most perilous attacks in the ongoing Ukraine conflict since its inception nearly three years ago. Despite the breach, authorities reported that radiation levels remained stable, and no injuries were reported. The attack, however, was described as brazen, especially as it coincided with a significant diplomatic meeting of world leaders in Munich. Images from the site showcased remnants of the drone, identified as a Shahed model. As workers scrambled to extinguish the last flames of the insulation burning within the structure, the fate of the already vulnerable nuclear plant remains uncertain under the chilling conditions.
