Ukrainian government allocates about US$37 million to enhance protection of Chornobyl nuclear plant

The government has allocated more than UAH 1.6 billion (about US$37 million) in budget funds for works to enhance the safety of the Chornobyl Nuclear Power Plant's shelter.

Source: Ministry of Energy

Details: The funding concerns the structure covering the fourth reactor unit of the Chornobyl Nuclear Power Plant, which was destroyed in the accident.

"The government has allocated more than UAH 1.6 billion in budget funds to carry out works to secure the Chornobyl NPP confinement. The funds will be directed, among other things, to mitigate the aftermath of Russia's terrorist attack on the plant's shelter," the ministry said.

The Ministry of Energy noted that despite the difficult wartime conditions, Ukraine will continue work to maintain the three power units of the Chornobyl NPP, the spent nuclear fuel storage facility and radioactive waste storage sites in a safe condition.

However, Ukraine can only deal with the global risks if Russia stops its attacks on Ukraine's nuclear facilities.

"A clear international response to such acts of terrorism is needed, including restricting the aggressor state's rights within the IAEA," the ministry added.

Background:

• Earlier, Ukraine's power grid came under a military attack that significantly affected operations in several regions and at nuclear power plants, requiring large-scale repair works. In particular, 44 drones were detected in the Chornobyl NPP exclusion zone.
• Previously, the State Nuclear Regulatory Inspectorate of Ukraine confirmed the justified safe operation of the ISF-1 spent nuclear fuel storage facility at the Chornobyl NPP until 31 December 2034.
• In 2023, it was reported that €1 million was needed to inspect unstable structures of the shelter at the Chornobyl NPP, and Ukraine expected support from French partners.

Support Ukrainska Pravda on Patreon!