Overview
- Greenpeace’s report released Tuesday warns the New Safe Confinement over Chernobyl cannot be fully restored and says an uncontrolled collapse of the old sarcophagus could be catastrophic.
- The United Nations’ nuclear watchdog said in December the protective arch no longer effectively stops radiation from leaking out of the wrecked reactor.
- Ukraine says a Russian drone pierced the outer shelter in February 2025, and France in March estimated repairs to the arch would cost nearly €500 million.
- The IAEA said the Zaporizhzhia nuclear plant recently lost all off‑site power, with diesel generators starting and a lower‑voltage line restoring electricity about 90 minutes later.
- Engineers say the inner shell holds tons of highly radioactive dust and fuel, and frequent attacks and power cuts prevent the use of cranes, ventilation, and monitors needed to dismantle it safely.