Fire at Russian nuclear plant after Ukrainian drone downed

August 24, 2025 / 4:34 PM

Sharjah 24 – AFP: A fire broke out Sunday at the Kursk Nuclear Power Plant in western Russia after a Ukrainian drone was shot down by Russian forces. The facility confirmed that the drone detonated on impact, causing a blaze that was quickly extinguished by emergency crews.

No casualties, radiation levels unchanged

Authorities reported no injuries from the incident. While capacity at the plant was temporarily reduced, radiation levels at the site and surrounding areas remained at natural, safe levels, according to a statement shared on Telegram.

IAEA warns of ongoing nuclear risks

The International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) has repeatedly raised concerns about the risks of military activity near nuclear sites, especially since Russia began its invasion of Ukraine in February 2022.

Conflict near border continues

The Kursk plant lies close to the Russia-Ukraine border, west of Kursk city. Russia currently controls about 20% of Ukrainian territory, including Crimea, which it annexed in 2014. The war has led to tens of thousands of deaths, widespread displacement, and severe destruction across Ukraine.

Ceasefire demands rejected

Despite international calls for an immediate and unconditional ceasefire, Russian President Vladimir Putin has continued to reject such appeals from Ukraine and its Western allies.