A Russian combined missile and drone attack overnight on 20 January knocked out all external power to the Chornobyl Nuclear Power Plant, according to Ukraine’s Energy Ministry. Radiation levels remained within normal limits, and energy workers have since reconnected the decommissioned station to Ukraine’s national power grid, according to the Ministry's evening report.
Russian forces strike Ukraine’s power grid
The Energy Ministry reported that the Chornobyl plant was fully disconnected from external electricity sources. Additionally, power transmission lines feeding other nuclear power plants were also affected during the Russian attack.
According to the Ministry, emergency response teams stabilized the situation at Chornobyl. Backup energy sources and fuel reserves had been prepared in advance to maintain the plant’s safety systems.
“There is currently no direct threat to the population or the environment. Energy workers and plant personnel continue to monitor the situation in an enhanced mode,” the statement reads.
Kyiv woke up cold and dark again after Russia fired 300+ more drones, dozens of missiles at power facilities (MAP)
Ukraine and IAEA to assess impact
The Ministry also announced an extraordinary meeting of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) Board of Governors to assess the consequences of Russian attacks on Ukraine’s energy system. This was agreed upon by First Deputy Prime Minister and Energy Minister of Ukraine Denys Shmyhal and IAEA Director General Rafael Grossi.
Russian attacks on Chornobyl
- In October 2025, Russian Shahed drones struck the power substation in Slavutych, the town that houses Chornobyl plant workers, cutting electricity and affecting operational safety.
- In February 2025, a Russian drone damaged the New Safe Confinement at Chornobyl, degrading its ability to contain radiation.
- February – March 2022: Russian invasion troops occupied the Chornobyl Exclusion Zone, disrupting radiation monitoring systems and stirring up contaminated soil before withdrawing.
