Partial dismantling of Chornobyl Sarcophagus, fire suppression efforts ongoing

The State Emergency Service of Ukraine (SES) reported this on Telegram, according to Ukrinform.

“At 12:00 on February 18, emergency responders were actively working to contain the fire and uncover parts of the sarcophagus structure,” the post reads.

Three SES high-altitude rescue teams are involved in the operation, with continuous monitoring of the situation using drones equipped with thermal imaging cameras.

Authorities have assured that radiation levels at the Chornobyl site remain within normal limits, posing no threat to the population. The situation is under control.

Ass reported, on February 14, a Russian attack drone carrying an explosive warhead struck the shelter over Chornobyl’s destroyed fourth reactor. The Security Service of Ukraine (SSU) confirmed that fragments of a Russian Shahed-type Geran-2 kamikaze drone were found inside and near the protective structure. Experts believe the attack on the plant was deliberate.

Later that evening, fires broke out on the outer cladding of the New Safe Confinement (NSC) structure.

Chief Engineer of ChNPP, Oleksandr Tytarchuk, warned that under certain conditions, the drone strike could lead to the release of radioactive materials.

Following the incident, Ukraine called on the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) to take urgent action to prevent further Russian attacks on nuclear facilities. IAEA Director General Rafael Grossi described the strike as a “very serious incident” and reiterated that nuclear security in Ukraine remains under severe threat.

On February 17, after detecting renewed smoldering, fire suppression efforts at Chornobyl were resumed.