Russian drone hits Chernobyl nuclear power plant's reactor shield, claims Ukraine President Volodymyr Zelenskyy

The Ukrainian President posted on X: "Last night, a Russian attack drone with a high-explosive warhead struck the shelter protecting the world from radiation at the destroyed 4th power unit of the Chornobyl Nuclear Power Plant."

He further said: "This shelter was built by Ukraine together with other countries of Europe and the world, together with America – all those committed to real security for humanity. The only country in the world that attacks such sites, occupies nuclear power plants, and wages war without any regard for the consequences is today’s Russia. This is a terrorist threat to the entire world."

He said the shelter at the Chornobyl NPP was damaged by this drone.

"The fire has been extinguished. As of now, radiation levels have not increased and are being constantly monitored. According to initial assessments, the damage to the shelter is significant," he said.

He said Russia carries out such attacks on Ukraine’s infrastructure and cities every night.

"Russia continues to expand its army and shows no change in its deranged, anti-human state rhetoric. This means that Putin is definitely not preparing for negotiations — he is preparing to continue deceiving the world. That is why there must be unified pressure from all who value life – pressure on the aggressor. Russia must be held accountable for its actions," he said.

The International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), meanwhile, said fire safety personnel and vehicles responded within minutes.

"At this moment, there is no indication of a breach in the NSC’s inner containment. Radiation levels inside and outside remain normal and stable," the agency said.

The agency said no casualty has been reported so far.

Short-range drones

In January 2025, short-range drones caused more casualties than any other weapon in Ukraine, the UN Human Rights Monitoring Mission in Ukraine (HRMMU) said in a new report released on Tuesday.

With increasing reports of these drones striking civilians in cars, on buses and on public streets, UN monitors have raised serious concerns about potential violations of international humanitarian law.

According to HRMMU’s latest monthly update on the protection of civilians, at least 139 were killed and 738 injured in Ukraine last month. Attacks using short-range drones accounted for almost 30 per cent of these incidents.

“Short-range drones now pose one of the deadliest threats to civilians in frontline areas,” said Danielle Bell, Head of HRMMU.