IAEA: After a drone attack in February, 330 holes were discovered in the Chornobyl shelter

IAEA: After a drone attack in February, 330 holes were discovered in the Chornobyl shelter

As a result of the arrival of a Russian UAV on the sarcophagus cladding (object "Shelter") at the Chornobyl Nuclear Power Plant, 330 holes have been recorded. The attack occurred in mid-February 2025.

This was reported on the official website of the International Atomic Energy Agency. It is noted that each hole averages 30-50 centimeters.

The IAEA noted that studies to determine the extent of the damage to the New Safe Confinement (NSC) arch after the Russian troops’ drone attack are still ongoing.

"It took several weeks to completely extinguish the fires caused by the strike. Emergency operations resulted in the formation of approximately 330 holes in the external cladding of the NSC arch, each with an average size of 30-50 cm," the report said.

According to information provided to the IAEA team at the site, a preliminary assessment of the physical integrity of the sarcophagus revealed significant damage to the stainless steel cladding panels, insulation materials, as well as a large part of the membrane located between the layers of insulation materials that prevents water, moisture, and air ingress.

"We are gradually obtaining a more complete picture of the serious damage caused by the drone strike. It will take a considerable amount of time and resources to address them," said IAEA Director General Rafael Grossi.

In addition, the IAEA team was informed that the main crane system of the NSC, which includes the northern garage area for crane maintenance, was damaged by the drone strike and is currently non-operational.

The agency also clarified that despite remaining functional, the heating, ventilation, and air conditioning systems are not operational.

"More reassuringly, no increase in radiation levels has been observed at Chornobyl, indicating no release of radioactive materials as a result of the strike," the IAEA concluded.