Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has condemned Russia for its latest attack, in which a drone struck the Chernobyl power plant.
As the war between Russia and Ukraine nears its third anniversary on February 24, the conflict shows no signs of resolution.
Despite the immense loss of Ukrainian civilian lives since Russia’s illegal invasion, a path to peace remains uncertain.
Meanwhile, former U.S. President Donald Trump has repeatedly claimed he wants to end the war and has reportedly spoken to Russian President Vladimir Putin multiple times in pursuit of this goal.
Vice President JD Vance is scheduled to meet with President Zelensky in Munich today (February 14) in hopes of advancing peace talks, with this latest attack likely to be a key topic of discussion.
Earlier today, Zelensky took to Twitter, stating that a Russian drone had struck the shelter over Chernobyl’s destroyed fourth power unit, which is “protecting the world from radiation.”
The impact reportedly started a fire, which has since been extinguished. However, concerns remain that the attack on the shelter could lead to increased radioactivity in the area.
Despite reports that the attack caused “significant” damage, President Zelensky confirmed that radiation levels have not increased. Ukraine’s State Emergency Service also stated that radiation levels in the area remain within normal limits.
On Twitter, Zelensky shared footage of the attack, condemning Russia and asserting that it highlights their unwillingness to pursue peace negotiations.
He stated: “Last night, a Russian attack drone with a high-explosive warhead struck the shelter protecting the world from radiation at the destroyed 4th power unit of the Chornobyl Nuclear Power Plant.
“This shelter was built by Ukraine together with other countries in Europe and around the world, including America, all those committed to real security for humanity.”
“The only country in the world that attacks such sites, occupies nuclear power plants, and wages war without any regard for the consequences is today’s Russia. This is a terrorist threat to the entire world.”
On Friday, Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov denied Russia’s involvement in the attack, suggesting it was likely a “provocation.”
Speaking to the press, he stated: “Most likely, this is yet another provocation. This is exactly the kind of thing the Kyiv regime is known for and sometimes does not hesitate to do.”
Meanwhile, Zelensky continued to accuse Russia of attempting to mislead the world about its actions in the war.
In another post, he wrote: “Russia continues to expand its army and shows no change in its deranged, anti-human state rhetoric. This means that Putin is definitely not preparing for negotiations, he is preparing to continue deceiving the world.”
“That is why there must be unified pressure from all who value life pressure on the aggressor. Russia must be held accountable for its actions.”
