On February 14, 2025, the Chernobyl Nuclear Power Plant was attacked by a drone, once again drawing international attention to radiation safety issues in Ukraine. According to Ukrainian authorities, the attack was carried out by Russian forces, marking yet another act of nuclear terrorism by the Kremlin. The drone, equipped with an explosive warhead, breached the outer shell of the protective sarcophagus, causing a localized fire. While no radiation leakage was recorded, this incident reaffirmed the urgent need for enhanced monitoring of potential threats.

This event became one of the key reasons for launching the “Development of Radiation Control at the Border Between Ukraine and the EU” project. Constant threats from Russia, including targeted attacks on critical infrastructure, have prompted both the international community and Ukraine to pay special attention to strengthening radiation control, particularly along the borders with the European Union. The attack on the Chernobyl Nuclear Power Plant demonstrated the critical importance of an effective monitoring system capable of promptly detecting potential risks and preventing environmental disasters.

Russian armed forces continue to target Ukraine’s critical infrastructure, including nuclear power facilities, posing a threat not only to Ukraine but to the entirety of Europe. International organizations, including the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), have expressed serious concerns about the potential consequences of such attacks, which could lead to the uncontrolled spread of radioactive materials.

On February 4, 2025, President of Ukraine Volodymyr Zelensky stated:

“A Russian strike drone carrying an explosive warhead hit the shelter that protects the world from radiation at the destroyed fourth reactor of the Chernobyl Nuclear Power Plant last night. This shelter was built by Ukraine together with other European and global countries, along with the United States.”

Director General of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), Rafael Mariano Grossi, commented on the situation:

“The incident at Chernobyl and the increased military activity around the Zaporizhzhia Nuclear Power Plant highlight the ongoing risks to nuclear safety at both stations. We cannot afford to be complacent. The IAEA will remain on high alert.”

President of Germany, Frank-Walter Steinmeier, called on EU leaders:

“The incident at the Chernobyl Nuclear Power Plant and the heightened military activity near the Zaporizhzhia Nuclear Power Plant underscore the persistent nuclear threats. We must act decisively and together to prevent further escalation and ensure the security of nuclear facilities.”

GreenUnity Ukraine is initiating the “Development of Radiation Control at the Border Between Ukraine and the EU” project, aimed at:  

– Monitoring radioactive threats;  

– Enhancing the safety of transporting potentially hazardous materials;  

– Expanding international cooperation;  

– Aligning Ukrainian legislation with EU standards.

 Expected Outcomes  

– Strengthened radiation control along the borders of Ukraine, the EU, and the U.S.;  

– Reduced risks of illegal transportation of radioactive materials;  

– Strengthened international cooperation in nuclear security;  

– Ensured protection of the population and environment from potential radiation threats.  

The “Development of Radiation Control at the Border Between Ukraine and the EU” project will serve as a strategically important initiative aimed at securing borders and ensuring environmental safety. International collaboration within this project will contribute to strengthening the radiation monitoring system and play a crucial role in preventing nuclear threats arising from Russia’s continued aggression.

This project will become a model of successful cooperation between Ukraine, the European Union, and the United States in addressing global security challenges. Joint efforts to establish a reliable radiation control system will foster trust between nations, facilitate technological advancements, and improve the training of specialists responsible for radiation safety.

Furthermore, the implementation of this project will have a significant impact on the region’s environmental stability, preventing potential ecological disasters and minimizing nuclear threats. Strengthening control over the movement of radioactive materials and military equipment containing potentially hazardous components will be a vital step in ensuring the safety of both citizens and the natural environment in Ukraine and EU countries.

Thus, the “Development of Radiation Control at the Border Between Ukraine and the EU” project will not only be a necessary measure for border protection but also a key component of a global strategy to counter nuclear and environmental threats. In the long term, it will contribute to strengthening regional security, advancing Ukraine’s scientific and technological potential, and enhancing international cooperation in radiation safety.