The International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) has stated that the protective shield at the Chernobyl Nuclear Power Plant in Ukraine, built to contain radioactive materials from the 1986 disaster, is at risk of damage due to combat operations in the region. The agency expressed deep concern over the situation and called for an immediate halt to any military actions in the area of the plant to avoid a potential nuclear catastrophe. "We call on all parties to the conflict to exercise maximum restraint and ensure the safety of the facility," the IAEA said in a statement. Experts note that damage to the shelter could lead to a new release of radiation, which would affect not only Ukraine but also neighboring countries, including Belarus and EU states.
