Funding for the restoration of the Chernobyl Nuclear Power Plant
The German government will provide 50 million euros for the restoration of the New Safe Confinement of the Chernobyl Nuclear Power Plant, which was damaged by a Russian drone. The funds will be deposited into the International Cooperation Account for Chernobyl. This was reported by the Ministry of Energy of Ukraine. Ukrainian Prime Minister Denys Shmyhal thanked the German government and Federal Minister Carsten Schneider for their decision.
Carsten Schneider, Federal Minister for the Environment, Nature Conservation and Nuclear Safety of Germany, visited the Chernobyl Nuclear Power Plant, where he inspected the New Safe Confinement arch and its infrastructure, as well as a new solar power plant. He honored the memory of the liquidators of the disaster. Denys Shmyhal emphasized the importance of restoring the confinement for ensuring nuclear safety in Ukraine and across Europe:
“Yesterday, during a personal meeting, we discussed the possibility of attracting funding. I thank Minister Schneider and the German delegation for their visit to the Chernobyl Nuclear Power Plant. We appreciate the prompt decision on the funds.”
Denys Shmyhal
Consequences of the attack and international support
Recall that a Russian strike drone hit the shelter of the destroyed 4th power unit of the Chernobyl Nuclear Power Plant on the night of February 14. Photographs published show that the attack used the Geran-2 UAV, which is the Russian version of the Iranian Shahed. As of February 15, the fire in the external shell of the shelter above the 4th reactor has been localized. According to the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), a hole approximately 6 meters in diameter was created after the drone strike. Additional sensors are planned to be installed to measure dose rate and aerosol concentration near the attack site.
It is worth noting that Ukrainian air defense forces do not intercept enemy drones over nuclear facilities in accordance with existing agreements. The Chernobyl Nuclear Power Plant was under occupation during Russia's full-scale invasion in 2022, and on March 31, Russian occupying forces left its territory. Earlier, the following also expressed their readiness to participate in financing the restoration of the New Safe Confinement:
- European Commission
- USA
- Norway
This news underscores the importance of international support for Ukraine in the field of nuclear safety, especially in the face of threats associated with military conflicts. The restoration of the New Safe Confinement is critically important for protecting the environment and ensuring regional safety. Support from Germany and other international partners reflects the seriousness of the situation and the necessity for joint efforts in combating the consequences of the Chernobyl disaster.