Russian Drone Hits Chernobyl Cover
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy disclosed on Friday that a Russian military attack drone had hit the safeguarding cover on the crippled fourth reactor at the Chernobyl nuclear power facility. Yet the radiation levels were normal. Kyiv has incessantly cautioned that military operations near nuclear facilities have the potential to unleash a catastrophe.
Kremlin Denies, EU Condemns
As Ukraine denounced the strike as evidence that Russian President Vladimir Putin does not want peace, the Kremlin characterized it as a “provocation” of Kyiv. “The Russian army does not hit nuclear facilities,” Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov declared, though with no more precise information about the incident. In turn, the European Union foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas labeled the strike “reckless” and explained that it indicated Moscow is not interested in peace.
Global Responses and Nuclear Safety Issues
Polish Foreign Minister Radoslaw Sikorski underscored the threat, referencing the 1986 Chernobyl accident, which released radiation throughout Europe. The International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) had verified an explosion but stated radiation levels at and beyond the site were normal. Greenpeace termed the attack “outrageous,” indicating Russia’s move was bringing the war to new heights.
Implications During Peace Talks
The attack occurs as US President Donald Trump is urging peace talks between Russia and Ukraine. The attack will be a major issue of discussion at the Munich Security Conference, where Zelenskyy will meet US Vice President JD Vance. A Zelenskyy advisor confirmed that Ukraine would bring up the matter with its allies in future negotiations.
