The need to protect nuclear facilities in Ukraine and for an immediate halt to Russian attacks has been underlined by the European Commission and EU High Representative Kaja Kallas in a joint statement marking 40 years since the Chernobyl disaster.
The statement notes that the catastrophe at the Chernobyl Nuclear Power Plant was one of the most severe nuclear disasters in human history, adding that its true cost remained concealed for years due to Soviet secrecy and only became clear over time.
Systematic attacks
It adds that the legacy of Chernobyl remains a stark reminder that nuclear safety depends on transparency, robust safeguards and international cooperation.
The Commission and Kallas warn that ongoing Russian strikes against the structure built to contain the remains of reactor 4 at Chernobyl are undermining decades of international efforts, as well as €2.1bn in investments aimed at limiting the impact of the disaster.
They also highlight that Russia’s illegal seizure and continued occupation of the Zaporizhzhia Nuclear Power Plant - the largest nuclear facility in Europe - significantly increases risks to human life and the environment.
The statement further stresses that Moscow’s systematic attacks on Ukraine’s energy infrastructure threaten the stable electricity supply required for the safe operation of the country’s nuclear installations.
On this sombre anniversary, Russia is urged to immediately cease all attacks on nuclear facilities in Ukraine and to comply with the Seven Indispensable Pillars for Nuclear Safety and Security during armed conflict.
Russia to be held accountable
It is also emphasised that Russia will be held accountable for endangering public safety, and should compensate for the damage caused while returning full control of the Zaporizhzhia plant to Ukraine.
According to the statement, the European Union has provided more than €1bn over time to support nuclear safety, security and radiation protection in Ukraine.
The EU remains the largest donor to international funds managed by the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development for environmental safety in the Chernobyl region.
More than €423m has been contributed towards the construction of the New Safe Confinement at Chernobyl, while an additional €37m was allocated last year through the Nuclear Safety Cooperation Instrument, part of which will fund urgent repairs.
Final repair works following damage caused by a Russian drone strike are expected to require at least €500m in additional funding.
Safety standards
The Commission and the High Representative also reaffirm the EU’s commitment to the highest standards of nuclear safety, security and non-proliferation, calling on the international community to maintain and strengthen support for Ukraine, including efforts to restore the New Safe Confinement.
In this context, a planned discussion by the G7 on repairs at Chernobyl during its May meeting is described as a significant step.
The statement concludes by recalling that the European Commission is responsible for ensuring high nuclear safety standards across member states that use nuclear energy, within the EU’s regulatory framework on nuclear safety, radiation protection and radioactive waste management.
CNA