Ukrainian President Accuses Russia of Nuclear Terrorism
President Volodymyr Zelenskiy has labeled Russia’s recent actions at Chernobyl as “nuclear terrorism,” pointing to the “reckless attack” at the site of the 1986 nuclear disaster.
Zelenskiy remarked in a Telegram post, “Forty years ago, the world faced one of the greatest nuclear disasters. Reactor 4 of the Chernobyl nuclear power plant exploded, releasing massive amounts of radioactive material. Hundreds of thousands have suffered from its effects over the years.”
He emphasized that Chernobyl remains hazardous, stating that radiation from the incident is sealed inside a massive “sarcophagus.” This structure, due to flaws in the original design, was supplemented by a larger, more secure containment, known as the New Safe Confinement (NSC).
According to estimates, the sarcophagus contains about 250 tons of radioactive materials, emitting levels more than 20 times what is lethal to humans. Experts predict the area will continue to release hazardous materials for centuries, possibly even thousands of years.
Zelenskiy insisted that maintaining and protecting Chernobyl’s security structures is a collective responsibility. He expressed concern that Russia’s ongoing military actions heighten the risk of a catastrophic incident. “Russian and Iranian ‘Shaheds’ are constantly flying over the station, and last year, one of them crashed into a nearby prison,” he indicated.
Shahed drones, which are inexpensive yet effective, have been deployed by Russia to counter Ukraine’s early advantages in aerial support. There have been numerous instances since the invasion began in 2022 when these drones were utilized extensively.
In February 2025, Ukrainian authorities reported that a Russian kamikaze drone struck Chernobyl, igniting a fire outside the NSC. Thankfully, the incident resulted in minor damage, and no radiation spike was detected afterward.
However, this attack left many concerned that a more severe strike could breach the NSC, potentially causing a dangerous release of radiation. The International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) warned that even minor damages from such incidents could diminish the NSC’s effective lifespan, designed to last at least a century.
Earlier this month, Zelenskiy accused Russia of deliberately targeting the electrical systems around Chernobyl, which could lead to power instabilities in the containment, making it critically dependent on external power.
The Kremlin dismissed claims of recent drone attacks as a “hoax,” suggesting instead that Ukrainians might have caused the damage themselves. They’ve also suggested previous accusations of Ukraine attacking Russian nuclear facilities.
“The world cannot allow this nuclear terrorism to continue,” Zelenskiy urged. “We must hold Russia accountable for these reckless actions.”
He honored those who sacrificed their lives in the wake of the Chernobyl disaster, stating, “We remember all those who gave their lives to eliminate its aftermath. They are forever in our thoughts.”
IAEA Director General Rafael Grossi expressed his concerns during a visit to Kyiv to mark the disaster’s anniversary. He discussed current security measures at the Zaporizhzhia Nuclear Power Plant, which is currently under Russian occupation.
Zelenskiy reiterated the need for Zaporizhzhia to be returned to the oversight of Ukraine’s authorized operators and nuclear regulators.
On a concerning note, the day following Grossi’s visit, there were reports of drone attacks involving casualties among Zaporizhzhia employees, with occupation forces alleging Ukrainian responsibility. The IAEA was informed ahead of this event, underscoring that attacks near nuclear sites pose serious dangers to safety.
