Ukraine’s President Volodymyr Zelenskyy accuses Russia of a drone attack on the Chernobyl Nuclear Power Plant’s protective New Safe Confinement (NSC) shell.

The International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) reported an explosion at the Chornobyl site overnight Thursday, heard by their on-site team.

A UAV allegedly struck the NSC roof, reportedly starting a fire. Zelenskyy stated that initial assessments reveal “significant damage” to the shelter.

Zelenskyy’s post indicates a “Russian attack drone with a high-explosive warhead” hit the shelter.

Video footage shared by Zelenskyy shows the drone impact and resulting explosion. He added that the fire was extinguished and radiation levels remain stable and are continuously monitored.

While investigations continue, Zelenskyy characterized the incident as a terrorist act.

“This shelter was a collaborative effort between Ukraine and other European and global partners, including the U.S., committed to genuine global security,” Zelenskyy stated. “Russia, the only nation attacking such sites, occupying nuclear plants, and waging war without concern for consequences, is responsible. This is a global terrorist threat. The Chernobyl NPP shelter was damaged by this drone.”

Russia denies any involvement.

The IAEA confirmed its fire safety personnel responded swiftly, and there’s no sign of a breach in the NSC’s inner containment.

The agency reported no casualties, but continues monitoring the situation. Radiation levels inside and outside remain normal and stable.

This event coincides with the Munich Security Conference, where the Ukraine-Russia conflict is a key discussion point.