Ukraine will receive $46 million in funding from international partners to repair the protective arch over the Chornobyl nuclear plant’s destroyed reactor, following a Russian drone strike that damaged the structure in February. Environment and Natural Resources Minister Svitlana Hrynchuk announced the news on June 26, emphasizing the importance of global support in addressing the crisis. The funds, which include contributions from France, the United Kingdom, and the European Commission, will be used to restore the protective cover and ensure the safety of the area.
The Russian Shahed-type drone strike occurred on February 14, damaging the New Safe Confinement structure that was built to contain radioactive material from the 1986 nuclear disaster. While no serious radiation leaks were reported, the damage raises concerns about the long-term stability of the site. The funding was announced during a meeting of the Chornobyl International Cooperation Account Assembly of Contributors, a key body overseeing the management of the nuclear plant’s issues. Hrynchuk noted that Ukraine has already conducted structural surveys and completed preparatory work, with initial funding allocated in March for this purpose.
The assembly also discussed plans for temporary repairs and long-term restoration efforts to fully restore the arch’s integrity and functionality. Chornobyl, the site of the world’s worst nuclear disaster in 1986, continues to be a focal point of international concern. The current protective structure, built as a more permanent solution, was completed in 2017. However, the recent attack underscores the ongoing threats to the site and the need for sustained investment in its safety and stability.
Experts warn that the restoration process is complex, involving advanced engineering and rigorous safety protocols. The Kyiv Independent highlighted that the damage to the New Safe Confinement represents a new potential radioactive danger as engineers work to repair the damage. The collaboration between Ukraine and its international partners signifies the critical role of global cooperation in managing nuclear risks and ensuring public safety. Despite the challenges, the pledged funds offer a glimmer of hope for stabilizing the site and preventing further environmental and health threats.