A Russian drone attack last night caused serious damage to the radiation protection shell at the Chernobyl nuclear power plant, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky said, quoted by Reuters, BTA reported.
According to him, the drone hit the shell around the destroyed power unit of the plant, causing a fire that has since been extinguished.
According to measurements taken this morning, radiation levels have not increased, Zelensky added.
The International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) confirmed that there was an explosion overnight in the new protective shell built around the sarcophagus encasing the remains of reactor 4 at the Chernobyl nuclear power plant, causing a fire.
The IAEA reported that Fire safety personnel and fire engines responded to the scene within minutes. No casualties were reported.
"Radiation levels inside and outside remain normal and stable. The IAEA continues to monitor the situation," the statement said, as quoted by Reuters.