UK pledges £17 million to repair Chornobyl nuclear shelter damaged by Russian drone
The United Kingdom will provide £17 million (more than €20 million) to help restore the protective structure covering the destroyed fourth reactor at Ukraine's Chornobyl Nuclear Power Plant, the Ukrainian Energy Ministry announced on October 15.
The New Safe Confinement, a massive steel arch designed to contain radioactive material and enable the safe dismantling of the old reactor shelter, was severely damaged by a Russian drone strike in February 2025.
The attack caused a fire and damaged both the outer and inner layers of the structure, as well as ventilation, electrical and lifting systems.
In December 2025, the International Atomic Energy Agency reported that the structure had lost its primary safety functions, including its ability to confine radioactive material. Its load-bearing structures and monitoring systems remained intact.
The British contribution will form part of an international restoration program coordinated by the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development in cooperation with Ukraine and G7 donor countries.
Ukrainian Energy Minister Denys Shmyhal thanked the UK for its support, saying the restoration was essential not only for Ukraine's nuclear safety but also for protecting Europe against radiation risks.
Germany previously announced a €50 million contribution toward restoring the structure in August 2026.
Ukraine and its international partners established a dedicated funding mechanism for the restoration effort in April.