Ukraine Drone Hits Russian Novovoronezh Nuclear Plant Cooling Tower

Russian state nuclear company Rosenergoatom reported that a Ukrainian drone was intercepted and detonated after crashing into a cooling tower at the Novovoronezh nuclear power plant, leaving a dark mark but causing no injuries or operational damage. Radiation levels at the plant and surrounding areas remain normal, and the plant's safety and operations are fully ensured despite the incident. This event has been labeled by Russia as another act of aggression by Ukrainian forces against Russian nuclear facilities, recalling prior attacks on other Russian plants. The incident occurs amid heightened tensions following attacks and power disruptions at the Russian-occupied Zaporizhzhia nuclear plant in Ukraine, which require constant power to maintain cooling systems and avoid nuclear risks. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy accused Russia of deliberately threatening radiation incidents and criticized the international nuclear watchdog for inadequate responses. Russia denies Ukrainian claims of shelling near nuclear sites and emphasizes the importance of security and continuous operations at these plants.