Myhailo Podolyak was quoted as saying that after a senseless attack by the Russians, it was impossible to say that Chernobyl’s nuclear power plant is safe.
International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), said that it was also informed by Ukraine about “unidentified armies” taking control of all plant facilities. There were no casualties or damage at the site.
According to a statement, Director General Rafael Mariano Grossi stated that the agency is monitoring the situation in Ukraine with “grave concern” but is asking for “maximum restraint” in order to avoid any actions that could endanger Ukraine’s nuclear facilities. According to the IAEA, it was informed that Ukraine’s nuclear power plants are safe and secure.
Zelensky had warned that Russian troops were trying to seize the Chernobyl nuclear facility, which was sealed up and abandoned. This effort he called “a declaration against the whole Europe”.
He tweeted hours after Russia invaded Ukraine.
The 1986 plant accident was the worst nuclear accident in history. A blast and fire at the site, located about 80 miles north-east of Kiev’s capital, caused radiation to enter the atmosphere. Large amounts were also carried over from Belarus, Russia, and Ukraine.
After the meltdown, thousands fled the area. At least 32 people were killed in the explosion and immediate aftermath. According to a 2016 World Health Organization report, approximately 11,000 cases may have been caused by the disaster.
To prevent radiation from leaking, the plant has been shut down. The public is not allowed to enter the area surrounding the reactor.
