A strike on Chernobyl could destroy the sarcophagus: warning from the Chernobyl NPP director.

According to ТСН: A Russian strike could cause the destruction of the sarcophagus of the Chernobyl Nuclear Power Plant.

The director of the Chernobyl NPP, Serhiy Tarakanov, reported that full restoration of the shelter could take from three to four years.

“If a missile or drone hits it directly, or even if it falls somewhere nearby, for example, an 'Iskander', God forbid, it will cause a mini-earthquake in that area. No one can guarantee that the protective structure will withstand after that. This is the main threat,” he said.

Tarakanov also noted that the radiation level at the site remains “stable and within normal limits.”

According to media reports, in February of this year, a Russian drone significantly damaged the roof of the confinement, causing a large fire in the external cladding of the steel structure.

Previously, the IAEA reported that an inspection mission at the beginning of this month found that the protective arch over the reactor and sarcophagus over the Chernobyl NPP “have lost their main safety functions, including the ability to contain radioactive materials. However, the supporting structures or monitoring systems have not suffered permanent damage.”

Tarakanov warned that another strike could lead to the depressurization of both the arch and the old sarcophagus located beneath it.

It should be noted that recently, the blackout at the facilities of the former Chernobyl Nuclear Power Plant lasted more than three hours.

The situation around Chernobyl remains tense. Constant threats from Russian attacks cause concern not only in Ukraine but also at the international level, as the consequences could affect many. The restoration of Chernobyl NPP is a long and complex process that will require significant efforts and resources.