**Drone Strikes Cooling Tower at Kursk Nuclear Power Plant**
The International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) reported on Friday that a drone strike occurred at the cooling tower of a reactor unit at the Kursk nuclear power plant in western Russia. This incident took place on Thursday while the reactor unit was operational.
According to the IAEA, the reactor continued to function normally following the drone impact, with no subsequent fire or significant disruption reported. The agency emphasized that the safety protocols in place were effective in mitigating any potential risks associated with the strike.
Rosatom, the Russian state nuclear power corporation, confirmed the incident and described the damage as “minor.” In their statement, they reassured the public that the reactor was operating at full capacity, maintaining a status of 100% operational efficiency. Furthermore, Rosatom reported that radiation levels remained stable and within acceptable norms, indicating that there was no immediate threat to safety or the surrounding environment.
The drone strike raises concerns about security at nuclear facilities, particularly in light of ongoing tensions in the region. The IAEA has been closely monitoring nuclear safety and security worldwide, especially in areas affected by conflict.
As investigations into the incident continue, officials are expected to review security measures at the Kursk plant and other nuclear facilities across Russia to prevent similar occurrences in the future.