Zelensky Denounces Russia's 'Nuclear Terrorism' as Ukraine Marks 40 Years Since Chernobyl Catastrophe

Zelensky Denounces Russia's 'Nuclear Terrorism' as Ukraine Marks 40 Years Since Chernobyl Catastrophe

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has leveled accusations of "nuclear terrorism" against Russia, citing ongoing military operations near the Chernobyl nuclear facility on the 40th anniversary of the world's worst nuclear disaster. The president warned that continued Russian drone activity over the plant poses a grave risk of repeating history.

Speaking during commemorative events in Kyiv and at the Chernobyl site itself on Sunday, Zelensky highlighted the dangers posed by Russian and Iranian-designed Shaheed drones regularly operating in the vicinity of the nuclear complex. "Russia is once again bringing the world to the brink of a man-made disaster," he stated, referencing an incident the previous year when one of the unmanned aircraft struck the containment structure.

Call for International Action

The Ukrainian leader appealed for decisive global intervention to curtail Russia's military aggression. "The world must not allow this nuclear terrorism to continue, and the best way is to force Russia to stop its reckless attacks," Zelensky declared.

His remarks came as solemn ceremonies unfolded across Ukraine, with Zelensky laying candles at the historic site alongside Moldova's visiting president and other dignitaries. The Chernobyl facility, which endured brief Russian occupation during the initial phase of the conflict, remains a flashpoint of concern for regional security.

Broader Nuclear Concerns

Zelensky extended his warnings beyond Chernobyl, emphasizing escalating threats to Ukraine's energy infrastructure. "Right now, the risks are no less great because of what Russia is doing with our Zaporizhzhia Nuclear Power Station, and in general with our energy and our land," he told journalists in the capital.

Mounting Casualties and Regional Tensions

The accusations emerged amid reports of at least 16 fatalities across Ukraine and Russian-controlled territories within the previous 24 hours. Additionally, North Korean leader Kim Jong Un pledged enhanced military backing for Russia following Moscow's defence minister's attendance at a memorial service in Pyongyang honouring North Korean troops killed in combat operations in Russia's Kursk region.

Military cooperation agreements between Russia and North Korea were formalized to establish "long-term" coordination mechanisms extending through 2031, positioning collaborative defence efforts on what officials described as a "stable, long-term footing."